Table Mountain 35KM
- Sunday 22 November 2026
- Cape Town
The Table Mountain 35KM is a 34.5 km mountainous road race in Cape Town on Sunday 22 November 2026, with about 1,863 m of climbing.
Course injury risk by body part
- QuadricepsHigh risk
1,857 m of descent loads the quads eccentrically, all the way down.
Do eccentric strength work in the weeks before, and train on downhills. Compression tights or quad taping can help on the day.
- Calves and AchillesHigh risk
11.4 km of steep descent, steeper than 5%.
Keep calf raises in your training. Calf sleeves or taping can support the Achilles.
- IT bandModerate risk
34.5 km of running adds up as lateral stress on the knee.
Foam-roll the IT band before the race. Lateral knee taping helps if you have had ITB trouble.
- Plantar fasciaLow risk
A long time on your feet over 34.5 km.
Race in shoes with the arch support you trained in. Taping can add support.
The course, stretch by stretch
Your fuel, stop by stop, on this course
Pick your goal time and the fuel you carry. The planner places every stop on this course, at the rate your gut can take, with fluid and sodium. Free, and no sign-up to try it.
The terrain consists of a mix of rocky trails, technical descents, and runnable sections. Notable features include the Platteklip Gorge ascent and the '400 Stairs' climb, which are both challenging and rewarding.
Typical race-day weather conditions can be hot, with temperatures often peaking in the summer sun. Runners should prepare for warm weather, especially since the race is usually held on a Sunday, historically the hottest day of the weekend.
Registration details can be found on the official event website. Entry fees and qualification requirements are typically outlined during the registration process. Participants are encouraged to register early due to the race's popularity.
The Table Mountain 35KM (TM35) is a challenging trail race that showcases the stunning beauty of Cape Town's iconic Table Mountain. With a total elevation gain of over 1900 meters, this race is not for the faint-hearted. Runners will experience two significant climbs, including the ascent up Platteklip Gorge, which leads to breathtaking views from the mountain's summit. The course features a mix of technical descents and runnable sections, providing a diverse and exhilarating experience for participants. The atmosphere during the race is electric, with runners navigating through shaded forests and scenic landscapes. As they traverse the course, participants will encounter the famous '400 Stairs' climb along the Newlands contour, which adds to the challenge. Historically, the race takes place on a Sunday, often the hottest day of the weekend, so runners should be prepared for the summer sun. The TM35 offers a unique blend of adventure, competition, and camaraderie, making it a must-do event for trail running enthusiasts.
The TM35 race is a part of the RMB Ultra-Trail Cape Town series, showcasing the stunning landscapes of Table Mountain. Established to challenge runners with its unique elevation profile, the race has become a significant event in the trail running calendar, attracting participants from around the globe. Its iconic status is marked by the breathtaking views and the challenging terrain that runners must navigate.
Questions about this race
When is the Table Mountain 35KM in 2026?
Sunday 22 November 2026, in Cape Town.
How hilly is the Table Mountain 35KM?
About 1,863 m of climbing over 34.5 km, between 107 m and 1079 m above sea level.
How do I enter the Table Mountain 35KM?
Registration details can be found on the official event website. Entry fees and qualification requirements are typically outlined during the registration process. Participants are encouraged to register early due to the race's popularity.
Take this race to the start line.
Set your goal for the Table Mountain 35KM, and Glyco builds the weeks before it, the carb load and your fuel on race day, then sends them to your watch.
