STAGGER TRAIL
A unique trail running experience against the backdrop of the majestic Drakensberg mountains.
The Stagger Trail is a one day Trail Run with a choice of two distances : 38km / 21km
DATE: 8 November 2025
Based at the Premier Resort Sani Pass and run in conjunction with the Sani Stagger road marathon and half-marathon, the Stagger Trail traverses a number of the most iconic trails in the surrounding Maloti Drakensberg World Heritage Site.
Both routes are characterised by genuine mountain trail with occasional technical sections and some challenging climbs which make for a truly authentic trail running experience..
STAGGER TRAil 38km
The ST38 has a fast open start down to the Mkomazana Waterfall before runners enter the trail on which they will spend 95% of their run.
An undulating section of 5km leads them into the mouth of the Gxalingenwa Gorge where they will climb steadily for the next 4km before joining the Giant’s Cup Trail for a brief section. A fast, flat leg along the Stromness Ridge is followed by the short steep descent back down to the Waterfall after which the big climb of the day looms ahead. The steepest part of the climb is the first 2km after which it undulates steadily upward for the next 5km eventually topping out onto the Khanti Ridge where the views and vistas of the Southern Drakensberg are unparalleled.
It’s then straight into the switchbacks which plunge down for 3km onto the Sani Pass Road where the runners will rub shoulders for a brief section with the roadies before turning off into the Giant’s Cup Trail. After 4km on the legendary Giant’s Cup Trail it’s the fast and technical descent down the magnificent Gxalingenwa before crossing under the road and onto the golf course to the finish.
Total VERTICAL GAIN: 1,580 m
Start Location:
Premier Resort Sani Pass Golf Course
Start time:
05h30
STAGGER TRAil 21km
The ST21 has a fast open start down to the Mkomazana Waterfall before runners enter the trail on which they will spend 95% of their run.
After 2km it’s straight into the major climb of the day. The steepest part of the climb is the first 2km after which it undulates steadily upward for the next 5km eventually topping out onto the Khanti Ridge where the views and vistas of the Southern Drakensberg are unparalleled.
It’s then straight into the switchbacks which plunge down for 3km onto the Sani Pass Road where the runners will rub shoulders for a brief section with the roadies before turning off into the Giant’s Cup Trail. After 4km on the legendary Giant’s Cup Trail it’s the fast and technical descent down the magnificent Gxalingenwa before crossing under the road and onto the golf course to the finish.
Total VERTICAL GAIN: 980 m
Start Location:
Premier Resort Sani Pass Golf Course
Start time:
06h30
ENTRY DETAILS
STAGGER TRAIL ENTRIES OPEN 5 MRRCH 2025
Entries will be processed via QUICKET.
IMPORTANT:
Entry fees DO NOT include any apparel.
MERCHANDISE SALES ARE CLOSED.
ST38 ENTRY FEE
TBC
Entry Fees Include:
Marked and prepared Mountain Trail
Full Medical Support
Finishers Medal
Donation to EKZNW
ST21 ENTRY FEE
TBC
Entry Fees Include:
Marked and prepared Mountain Trail
Full Medical Support
Finishers Medal
Donation to EKZNW
COMPULSORY GEAR
All entrants must bring a weather proof running jacket to the race as in the event that conditions are cold and wet these jackets will be made a compulsory item.
The cut-offs for the ST38 will be 09:00 (17km/3hr30min) at The Waterfall, and 11:30 (28km/6hr) at Mkomazana. The cut-off for the ST21 will be 10:30 (11km/4hr) at Mkomazana. The cut-offs are generous but will be strictly enforced. The Waterfall cut-off is a 1km walk from the Hotel and there will be a lift for anyone cut off at Mkomazana.
Conservation is a subject close to the heart of Running Man Adventures and as a result we take our environmental footprint very seriously. In light of this Stagger Trail will be a ‘cup free’ event and all runners will be required to carry their own cup or bottle for use on the trail and at the water tables.
Please ensure that you bring your own cup or bottle to the event.