04 January 2026
Escape the city “noise” and discover one of Durban’s favourite green spaces on foot – the enchanting 253-hectare Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve.
Proclaimed in 1963 through the will of Kenneth Stainbank, this urban oasis is a mosaic of grasslands and riverine forests, home to zebra, duiker, bushbuck, reedbuck, and even inquisitive mongoose. At its heart stands the historic Coedmore Castle, built in 1875.
The routes at the Kenneth Stainbank Trail are fast, flowing and runnable – ideal for those chasing a personal best, kicking off your New Year’s training, or newcomers exploring trail running for the first time.
Join us for the Kenneth Stainbank Trail Run and experience these historic trails for yourself!
- Date: Sunday, 04 January 2026
- Registration: 6am onwards
- Race Briefing: 15min before each race
- Race Types: Loop, Runnable, Non-technical, Walkers welcome.
- Venue: Kenneth Stainbank, Yellow Wood Park
- No Pets (venue is a nature reserve)
- FAQs and T's and C's Here
- View Past Album
- View Past Results
*By entering you accept the terms and conditions, indemnity and waiver for this event. Click to view.
Courses
All courses at the Kenneth Stainbank Trail Run start and finish at the same central race village, quickly drawing runners into the shaded, undulating trails of the reserve. Expect flowing singletrack, short punchy climbs and a real sense of immersion in one of Durban’s most treasured natural spaces.
Short Course
A compact but rewarding introduction to trail running. This route weaves through forested sections and open clearings, offering plenty of variety without being overwhelming. Perfect for new-comers or those looking for a fast, focused run.
Medium Course
The step up. This route explores more of the reserve, linking flowing trails with deceptive climbs and descents that test rhythm and pacing. A balanced challenge for runners wanting distance with a decent dose of elevation.
Long Course
The full Kenneth Stainbank experience. Looping trails take participants deeper into the reserve, stacking elevation and technical sections while rewarding effort with quiet forest moments and sweeping trail flow. Engaging and deeply satisfying.
Different distances, shared climbs and the same finish-line energy.
Download file: KZNTR-Kenneth-Stainbank-Trail-Run-Long-Course.gpx
Compulsory Kit: There is no compulsory kit requirements for this race. Courses are subject to change.
Download file: KZNTR-Kenneth-Stainbank-Trail-Run-Medium-Course.gpx
Compulsory Kit: There is no compulsory kit requirements for this race. Courses are subject to change.
Download file: KZNTR-Kenneth-Stainbank-Trail-Run-Short-Course.gpx
