The Paarl Arboretum will once again come alive this December as runners of all ages descend on the historic town for The Rock Ultra Trail Runs – a two-day showcase of endurance, scenery and community spirit. While the event includes both marathon and ultra-distance challenges, it is the 5 km Klippie Fun Run, presented in aid of the Anna Foundation, that promises to steal the spotlight.

Set for Saturday, 6 December at 08:00, the Klippie is far more than a warm-up for the longer races. Organised by the Anna Foundation, the run embodies the heart of the weekend: community upliftment, youth involvement and the joy of simply getting people moving. Families, casual joggers and anyone looking to support a worthy cause are encouraged to lace up and enjoy the scenic loop that starts and ends at the Arboretum.

What sets The Rock Ultra apart is its unique venue. The Paarl Arboretum is not only a green sanctuary along the Berg River, but also the central home base for all four race categories, from the family-friendly Klippie to the gruelling 100 km Rock Ultra. With towering shade trees, ample space for spectators and easy access to the mountain reserve, the Arboretum serves as the heartbeat of the weekend – hosting the start lines, finish lines, race village, entertainment areas and the official prizegiving.

From the Arboretum, runners will make their way toward the Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve, where routes unfold across rugged granite slopes, winding Fynbos singletracks and sweeping Winelands vistas. Spectators can catch the action at Meulwater Kamp, Ruitersvlei and Blacksmith’s Kitchen, all offering excellent vantage points.

Race Distances

The Klippie – 5 km Fun Run

A festive family event presented by the Anna Foundation, celebrating participation and community upliftment. Entries are R100 for adults and free for children under 13. Enter here for the Klippie.

The Boulder – 22 km

A technical challenge for developing trail athletes.

The Rock 44 – 44 km

A demanding marathon-distance route through Paarl’s famous granite outcrops.

The Rock Ultra – 100 km

The headline race, beginning Friday evening as runners head into the sunset and tackle the mountain through the night.

Weekend Highlights

Sunset Ultra Start: The 100 km event kicks off at 19:00 on Friday from the Arboretum – a dramatic scene as runners disappear into the dusk.

Family Zone: The Anna Foundation and Cape Winelands Biosphere Reserve will host kids’ activities and the interactive Science Truck from 10:00 on Saturday.

Prizegiving: The celebrations culminate at 12:00 on Saturday at the race village.

Event Schedule

Friday, 5 Dec

  • Registration – 15:00
  • Ultra briefing – 18:30
  • 100 km start – 19:00

Saturday, 6 Dec

  • 44 km – 06:00
  • 22 km – 07:00
  • 5 km Klippie – 08:00

Cut-offs: Boulder 13:00, Rock 17:00, Ultra 20:00

The Rock Ultra 2025 is presented by Drakenstein Municipality, with support from All Mountain Co., TCS WiFi, Enduren, SA Sports Hub, Sole Ink and First Ascent.

Entries are open on Entry Ninja, with full details and route maps available on the official website.