Race Info

Important Information to make your raceday experience a smooth one!

About

Num-Num Trail Challenge

The Num-Num Trail Challenge is a demanding mountain running event held on the rugged Escarp Adventures property, nestled in South Africa’s dramatic Highveld escarpment between Belfast and Machadodorp. The route forms part of the well-known Num-Num “High 5” hiking trail, a network famed for its remote single-track, technical terrain, and raw natural beauty.

Runners can expect a mix of steep climbs, rocky ridgelines, indigenous forests, waterfalls, and handcrafted wooden ladders. With limited entries and a no-frills atmosphere, the race stays true to its roots: challenging, wild, and deeply rewarding. It’s a proper test of trail endurance in one of South Africa’s most unspoiled mountain environments.

NEW DISTANCES, SAME LEGENDARY CHARACTER:

  • 36 km – For the brave. You’ll EARN your post-run beer.
  • 21 km – Classic challenge, half the distance, double the thrill.
  • 15km – Proper outing , without the suffering.
  • 7 km – Short, sweet, and still a proper taste of Num-Num grit.

ENTRY FEE AND START TIMES

R1550 – 36km –  07:30am

R950 – 21km – 07:30am

R700 – 15km – 08:00

  • R250 – 7km – 08:30

This includes:

  •  – Event Shirts can be ordered seperately
  • Well marked route 
  • Finishers medal.
  • Coffee & tea table on the race morning.
  • Lavish water tables on the the route on race day.
  • Braai lunch at the village from 12-4 pm (excl 7km) and prize giving on the Saturday after the cut off and much more.

This truly offers one of the best value for money, unique trail events on pristine nature trails that are regarded as some of the best in the country

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RACE INFO

REGISTRATION & START 

Registration desk will be open on Friday afternoon 24 July 2026  from 15h00 to 20h00 and Saturday morning (25 July ) from 06h00 – 07h 00 at the race village in the Pongola Express Camp.

COMPULSORY GEAR

  • “Wind proof” shell / Jacket 

  • Space blanket

  • Cellphone with the emergency number 082 946 0568 saved on it

  • 1 litre of water

  • Mini first aid kit:

  • Race Nutrition

  • Whistle

(Not applicable to 7km route)

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Race

Accomodation

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A variety of accommodation options are available on the Escarp Adventures property for the Num-Num Trail Challenge weekend. All bookings must be made directly through the Escarp Adventures website or by contacting Pieta 

Contact Pieta on 0829502417 Or Trailrun@Escarp.co.za  for pictures and  bookings.

 

F.A.Q

Frequently Asked Questions

The race takes place on the Escarp Adventures property between Belfast and Machadodorp, Mpumalanga. The routes follow sections of the Num-Num “High 5” hiking trail.

Very. The course includes steep climbs, rocky single track, wooden ladders, narrow forest paths, and sections that require careful foot placement. It’s a proper mountain run, not a groomed trail.

Yes. Cut-off times apply, particularly for the 36km and 21km distances. And will be done at Candlewood Aid Station at 15:00.  Details will be shared in the race briefing and are based on safety and daylight limits.

Yes, there are well-stocked waterpoints on all routes, but runners should still carry water and nutrition, especially for the longer distances. 

Yes, but only within the designated cut-off times. The terrain is tough, so you must be reasonably fit even if you’re not racing.

Accommodation must be booked directly through Escarp Adventures or by contacting Pieta 0829502417 or email Trailrun@Escarp.co.za

Absolutely. The Escarp Adventures venue is family-friendly with accommodation and spectator points available — just keep in mind that the trails themselves are not easily accessible by vehicle.

All finishers receive a medal. Prizes are awarded to top finishers in each distance and age category.

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