The Sappi Trails Programme

Unlocking adventure, sustainability, and economic growth on Sappi land  

At Sappi, nature isn’t just something to admire—it’s something to experience. Across 405,000 hectares of land, Sappi is committed to conservation and sustainability, with 142,000 hectares of unplanted natural areas set aside to protect biodiversity and maintain vital ecosystems. Within selected areas of these landscapes, world-class trails for mountain biking, trail running, birdwatching, and nature walks have been created—offering members of the public unique opportunities to connect with nature in invigorating and sustainable ways.

Our trails as economic arteries  

Our trail networks aren’t just paths through nature—they are economic arteries, bringing life to local communities. Since its inception in 2011, the Sappi Trails Programme has been a beacon of connection and collaboration, fostering partnerships with trail custodians and benefiting surrounding communities. This initiative has transformed our extensive plantations into vibrant hubs for outdoor activities, creating a ripple effect of economic and social benefits.  

Connecting communities through trails  

The Sappi Trails Programme was established to provide access for people to pursue healthy outdoor pursuits on our land. By opening our plantations for trail running and mountain biking, we have not only promoted a healthy lifestyle but also created a platform for community engagement and economic growth. Our trails have become a vital part of the local economy, supporting small businesses, creating jobs, and encouraging local spending.  

One of our flagship partners, the Karkloof Country Club in KwaZulu-Natal, exemplifies this connection. Offering over 250 kilometres of single-track trails, the club has become a popular destination for both recreational and competitive mountain bikers and trail runners, with annual visitor numbers increasing substantially. This partnership has not only enhanced the club’s offerings but also brought significant economic benefits to the surrounding community.  

Collaborating for shared value  

Collaboration is at the heart of the Sappi Trails Programme. By working closely with trail custodians, such as the Karkloof Country Club, Mankele Adventure Tourism and Tranquilitas in Mpumalanga, we have developed a world-class network of trails that are well-maintained and safe for users. These partnerships have been instrumental in growing the sports of mountain biking and trail running, both at recreational and competitive levels.  

Our collaboration extends beyond just trail maintenance. We have partnered with local tourism bodies, such as uMngeni Tourism, to conduct business impact studies focused on nature-based tourism attractions and activities.  

Building safer, more accessible outdoor spaces  

Sappi’s plantations are active work sites, meaning safety is our top priority. The Sappi Trails Programme has implemented a comprehensive risk management system based on international standards with insurance, clear communication, and structured access guidelines—ensuring secure, year-round access for recreation and events.  

Turning trails into jobs and economic growth   

Outdoor adventure doesn’t just fuel fitness—it fuels economies. A 2022 study found that nature-based tourism in the Karkloof region generated an incredible ZAR88 million for supply-side tourism businesses, directly supporting 503 jobs and indirectly creating 3,080 jobs across the uMngeni Municipal area.  This leads on from a 2016 study with KZN Tourism which estimated that trail users and their networks drive an annual economic impact of ZAR231 million. What’s more, visitor numbers have soared by 883% since 2011, with over 40,000 people now frequenting these outdoor spaces annually.  

One standout initiative which led to job creation is the Sappi-sponsored Adventure Tourism Incubator (ATI), which trains independent trail builders and maintenance experts. Since its launch, ATI has helped 23 trainees from 12 regions develop skills, with many securing long-term employment contracts.  

Empowering young minds through education  

Sappi’s commitment to education extends beyond the trails. Through our partnership with Karkloof Country Club, we’ve supported the Karkloof Early Childhood Development Centre since 2018, giving underprivileged children access to early maths, literacy, and problem-solving education. Additionally, Yarrow Primary School benefits from structured reading and writing support, creating a foundation for future success.  

Expanding impact, conservation, and research  

The Sappi Trails Programme is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG15: Life on Land)—one of Sappi’s top priorities. Looking ahead, the programme aims to enhance conservation efforts, introduce visitors to more aspects of biodiversity, and ensure Sappi’s sustainability commitments are widely recognised and deeply understood.

As we move forward, we’re focused on:  

• strengthening risk management to keep access safe and sustainable  
• deepening socio-economic impact through tourism and employment opportunities  
• driving research to track success and identify areas for continuous improvement  

The Sappi Trails Programme isn’t just a recreational initiative—it’s a catalyst for economic growth, environmental stewardship, and community well-being.