Lower Tokai Park

Whether you’re a mountain biker, runner or nature lover, Tokai forest is the perfect place to escape the  bustle of city life and take a roll in the wild. The Lower section of the park is easy to access and has a flat, meandering trail that weaves in and out of forest and indigenous fynbos, providing an easy pedal for kids and newcomers to cycling.

DISTANCE | 3.8 km      GRADIENT | Flat    TERRAIN | Traffic-free shared pedestrian + cycle path. Compacted earth track + wooden boardwalks.
ACCESS | Table Mountain Park Activity card required for entry. Vehicle parking on Dennedal Ave. + Orpen Rd.

Route Description

The Lower Tokai Park trail is well maintained and consists of a nicely compacted cycling path that alternates with boardwalks and sandy paths. The full circular route is around 4 kilometers but you can easily vary the distance by exploring any of the many paths that criss-cross the park. A river, various jungle gyms, swings and wooden benches make great pit stops along the way for kids.

The park is home to a variety of indigenous fynbos plants and animals like the blue crane and grey mongoose. There is also a small pine plantation, the remnants of a larger forest that was removed to enable the restoration of the natural fauna. Keep you eyes peeled for squirrels running across the forest floor and the elusive owl hanging out in the trees.

Access to the trail and parking can be found on Orpen Road and Dennedal Avenue and you can start the ride anywhere along this route. As Lower Tokai Park forms part of the Table Mountian National Park, so you will need an activity card* or Day permits to make use of the area (see more information below). 

Tips

• Go slow:  This route can get quite busy on the weekends and as the path is shared with pedestrians, kids and dogs, it is important to show them respect – don’t speed, keep left and give way to others.
• Use your bell to let others know you’re approaching, but don’t assume they can hear or see you.
• Watch out for horses and other animals. Give them plenty of room as you go by. Don’t scare them by sounding your bell or horn; they could injure someone.
• Get off the beaten track: Sandy trails intersect in zig-zag formation for those wanting to take the road less travelled and get even closer to nature. Check the signs as some of these areas are being rehabilitated and do not allow cycling.

* As Tokai Forest forms part of the Table Mountian Resrve, a TMNP My Activity Permit Level 3 is required for anyone wanting to cycle or mountain bike in the park. Day permits are also available to ride on Table Mountain and can be bought at the main Cape Town Tourism Sales Office in the centre of town at the corner of Burg and Castle street. Please visit the TMNP website for the latest prices and sales outlets.