The Cradle Mountain Trophy

3 to 4 October 2026

The Most Popular and Prestigious Gravel/ MTB Stage Race and Trail Run/ Walk in Gauteng

And introducing.....

Saturday 4 - 5 October 2026 at the Valley Lodge & Spa, Magaliesburg
Now a 2-Day Stage Race

Founded in 2010, The Cradle Mountain Trophy has grown into one of Gauteng’s most respected and enduring off-road events — combining world-class gravel riding, mountain biking and trail running in the spectacular surroundings of the Magaliesberg.

Now entering an exciting new chapter, the event returns in 2026 as a dynamic two-day festival of endurance, competition and outdoor adventure.

As Leg 4 of the Stellantis Adventure Series, The Cradle Mountain Trophy arrives at a pivotal point in the season — and with double series points on offer, this is where championship ambitions become very real.

For elite riders chasing a share of the R350,000 series prize purseincluding R100,000 each for the overall male and female series winners — this is a race that simply cannot be ignored. For recreational riders, trail runners and families, it remains one of the most enjoyable and rewarding weekends on the Gauteng endurance calendar.

Importantly, for riders preparing for the Nedbank Gravel Burn, The Cradle Mountain Trophy represents the final major Gauteng gravel event before Gravel Burn begins just three weeks later — making it the perfect final preparation ride.

All cycling routes in 2026 will feature exciting gravel-focused courses designed to challenge experienced riders while remaining accessible and enjoyable for social participants and first-time gravel racers alike.

Plus, there is over R40,000 in prize money up for grabs at the event, with the with the winners of the 2-Day Stage Race taking home R10 000 each.

New for 2026 is The Cradle Mountain Adventure — a 2-Day schools MTB and gravel stage race forming part of the Luxliner Schools Series.

What's on offer

Gravel/ MTB

Saturday 3 October 2026

2-Day Stage Race

  • 100km Gravel/ MTB Stage (Sat)
  • 70km Gravel/ MTB Stage (Sun)

These events form part of the Stellantis Adventure Series and are open to all riders — especially those preparing for Gravel Burn. If you are looking for the ideal final long ride before the big event, you do not want to miss this weekend.

Sunday 4 October 2026

Sunday Distances

  • 70km Gravel/ MTB Ride
  • 45km Gravel/ MTB Ride
  • 20km Gravel/ MTB Ride

Introducing a Brand New 2-Day Schools Stage Race

2026 marks the launch of an exciting new addition to the weekend — The Mountain Trophy Adventure — a dedicated two-day schools stage race and one of the first events of its kind in Gauteng.

Young riders will compete across two stages:

  • A 15km MTB Time Trial on Saturday
  • A 20km (U14) or 45km (U16 & U19) MTB Race on Sunday

Trail Run / Walk

15km, 10km or 5km

Saturday 3 October

From flowing single-track and technical sections to breathtaking scenery, these routes deliver an unforgettable outdoor experience for both serious trail runners and casual participants.

There is R6 000 in prize money up for grabs the 15km, with the male and female winners each taking home R1,500.

Cradle Mountain Trophy Sponsors