Sports and Outdoors

Dog-friendly Hiking Trails and Running Events in South Africa

Active types this one’s for you! Have you ever been hiking or participated in a 10KM running event and wished your dog was there to share in the moment with you before you’d even taken your first steps? If you answered yes, yes, yes then keep reading because we’ve gone on the hunt for the very best hiking spots and sporting events where bringing Fido isn’t just allowed, it’s encouraged!

Sweat Together at Your Local Parkrun:

This international community movement has become extremely popular in South Africa over the past year and a bit. Parkrun organises free, weekly, 5km timed runs around the world and there is bound to be one near you. Some of the most popular ones around the country include Lonehill, Johannesburg, Greenpoint Park, Cape Town and the Umhlanga Pier, Durban runs. The runs are open to everyone and are free, safe and easy to take part in. They are also open to dogs! Loads of dog owners bring their pups along for the fun on these Saturday morning runs so why not take your pup and join in? Just make sure that your dog is able to run 5km, of course.

Visit www.parkrun.co.za for more information and to find a run near you.

Head to the Beach in PE

Dog owners living in Port Elizabeth will want to take advantage of the Sacramento Trail at the Schoenmakerskop Dunes.This 8km coastal trail along the ocean is open to dogs walking with their owners and offers outdoor types grand views and scenery. Of course you need to take care when walking with your dog in this region; make sure your dog is close by you at all times as they could run into a snake or other creatures that might harm them.

Visit www.sahikes.co.za for more information.

Wiggle Your Way to the Finish Line

The annual Wiggle Waggle Walk-a-thon in Cape Town is a great way for dog owners to get out and about with their favourite furry friend. The race usually takes place in December every year so make sure you keep a look out. The hugely popular 4.5km charity dog walk attracts thousands of walkers and their dogs of all shapes, sizes and breeds every year. The dogs and their owners come from all over Cape Town to put their best foot and paw forward in support of the Cape of Good Hope (CoGH) SPCA. The race usually costs R40 per person and R30 per dog and all proceeds are donated to the SPCA.

visit www.spca-ct.co.za for more information.

Take a Hike in Jozi

Believe it or not there are some fabulous places to hike in Joburg. And, not just for humans, for dogs too! Joburgers can take their pet pooch for a hike at these popular hiking spots in summer or even on a warm(ish) winter’s day. Described as Johannesburg’s ‘secret garden’, The Wilds comprises 18ha of ground and finds itself nestled between Houghton, Killarney and Parktown. Informal group walks take place on Sundays at 07:00 from September through to May and dogs on leads are most welcome. Another option is the Lonehill Koppie. Located near Lonehill Park, the area has several small streams and is a great place to go for a hike with your dog.

For more information on The Wilds call TJ de Klerk on 082 554 9972.

Run the Night in Sea Point

This 10km night run follows a loop along the Sea Point Promenade and is perfect for those looking for a fun evening jog or walk next to the ocean. Dogs on leads are welcome to join in on the fun as long as they are correctly socialized. The race starts at 18:30 and entries close on Wednesday 26 February 2015. And, for those who aren’t interested in running; supporters, spectators and families are encouraged to bring a picnic, watch the sunset and enjoy the race.

Visit www.topevents.co.za for more information.

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