Trails and Maps

We love being able to share the unique setting with our visitors.  The Grassland Biome is often under estimated and under appreciated for its beauty and diversity. We encourage our visitors to observe the variety of species which can be seen enroute, but also pause a while to take in the spectacular views of the magnificent Drakensberg in the distance.

Please note the following:

 

  • All the trails transverse active farming areas, that means cattle and wildlife may be encountered.
  • Please give all animals and cranes “right of way” and skirt around them.
  • Due to the biodiversity of the reserve and wildlife activities the KZNCF cannot guarantee the status of paths. Examples are:
    • Ant bear/Aardvark digging large holes overnight
    • Cattle pushing over signs

Please be vigilant and take precautions where required.

Marked routes

There are five marked routes of trails on the Bill Barnes Crane and Oribi Nature Reserve. Two trails depart from Fordoun Hotel and Spa, two trails depart from the parking adjacent to the Midlands Community College and one trail departs from the Usher Centre.

Below is a map of all marked trails with their routes. Please scroll down for information about each trail.

Trail Map KZNCF routes
Bird Hide Route

Bird Hide Route: 7.8km

This trail departs from the Usher Centre and follows the same route to the bird hide and back. 

Yellow Route

Yellow Route: 5.2km

This trail departs from Fordoun Hotel and Spa and is a circular route with the same path at the very end. 

Blue Route

Blue Route: 12.7km

This trail departs from the Midlands Community College gate and is a circular route ending at the same spot. 

Green Route

Green Route: 4.7km

This trail departs from the Midlands Community College gate and is a circular route ending at the same spot

Red Route

Red Route: 6km

This trail departs from Fordoun Hotel and Spa and is a circular route ending at the same spot. 

https://kzncranefoundation.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/cropped-Logo.jpg
KZN Crane Foundation’s

Rules for cycling, running and hiking:

  1. Entry to the reserve is restricted to acceptance and signing of the indemnity. If not accepted and signed, then you will be trespassing.
  2. If you enter the reserve, you are jointly and severally reliable to the trails in KZNCF.
  3. Please note:
    a. All animals and birds have right of way (do not disturb).
    b. You are entering an active farming area and as such there are potential risks related to the farming activities, especially bulls and cows with calves (give them a wide berth).
  4. Please report any issues or concerns via:
    a. Allotted WhatsApp number (065 738 5818 – during office hours).
    b. Notties Cycling Club group.
    c. Notties Running/Walking Club
  5. Do not litter.
  6. Open and close gates – leave them in the condition they were found.
  7. No pets allowed on the reserve.
  8. Stay on the paths.
  9. Do not remove any biological matter.

Bird Hide Route Video

Photos from our trails