Launched in 2011, the Sappi Trails Programme grants responsible recreational access to Sappi plantations for trail running, hiking, and mountain biking, enabling communities to benefit from nature-based tourism while ensuring environmental sustainability. Recently, custodianship of the iconic Karkloof Falls was entrusted to the Karkloof Country Club, positioning it as a hub for tourism, conservation, and community development.

The programme benefits local businesses, schools, and community members through job creation, training, and outreach. Partnerships such as the Nguni Trails team, which emerged from the Karkloof Adventure Tourism Incubator, provide trail building and maintenance services, creating permanent employment. The Karkloof Club itself has hired 10 staff members and supports a local school and crèche, ensuring that recreational access translates into tangible community upliftment.

The Sappi Trails Programme has become a powerful economic artery for the region:

• Trail user growth: From 4 273 users in 2011 to over 42 000 in 2024 (884% increase).
• Annual economic impact: R231 million from recreational riding and nature-based tourism (Tourism KZN study).
• Event investment: The annual Sappi-sponsored Karkloof Classic and Trail Festival generate R6.88 million in direct economic impact.
• Job creation: 503 direct jobs supported and 3 080 indirect jobs created in the uMngeni municipal area.

“I never thought much about the environment, but now I build trails with care, knowing I’m protecting nature while creating paths for others to enjoy. Having permanent work means I can give my daughter a stable life.” – Simphiwe Ngcobo, Karkloof Trail Centre

“Sappi’s support helped me grow alongside the Karkloof Country Club. I’ve built a stable future for my family, putting my sister through university and now my daughter is following in her footsteps.”
– Thembi Mchunu, Karkloof Country Club