Dear Hiking Group Leaders,

We hope this post finds you well and that your hiking groups have been enjoying our trails. We are truly grateful for your continued support and for the groups you continually bring to our trails. However, we wanted to address a safety concern that has recently come to our attention, specifically regarding interactions between hikers and cyclists.

To ensure the safety of all trail users, we have made the difficult decision to close two of our trails, Dam Buster and Room with a View, to hiking groups of more than 5 people. We have observed a few safety issues related to interactions between hikers and cyclists, and by implementing this measure, we aim to mitigate any potential risks and create a safer environment for everyone.

Effective immediately, Dam Buster and Room with a View will only be open for late afternoon/sunset hikes, when the number of cyclists on the trails is typically reduced. We kindly request your cooperation in adhering to this restriction and ensuring that your groups are aware of the updated trail access guidelines.

In addition to the trail closures, we would like to take this opportunity to remind you and your groups of some important safety practices when sharing the trails with cyclists. Please encourage your groups to walk in single file and be vigilant of their surroundings, giving way to cyclists whenever necessary. By fostering a culture of awareness and consideration, we can enhance the overall experience for everyone involved.

To facilitate better coordination and to help us ensure the safety of all trail users, we kindly ask that you notify us via email (demi@3riverstrails.co.za) whenever you plan to bring a group of 10 people or more to 3Rivers Trails. Please include the following details in your email:

• Date and time of your visit
• Route(s) you intend to hike
• Expected number of participants

We genuinely appreciate your understanding and cooperation in this matter, as safety is our utmost priority. Together, we can continue to promote a positive outdoor experience for all trail users. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.

Thank you once again for your ongoing support, and we look forward to welcoming your hiking groups to 3Rivers Trails.

We kindly ask that you encourage your hikers to tag and mention 3Rivers Trails in their social media posts. By doing so, we can increase our visibility and inspire even more nature enthusiasts to explore these stunning landscapes. Thank you for your dedication, and we look forward to a thriving partnership in promoting the beauty of 3Rivers Trails.