This well designed pass is a safer, shorter and faster alternative to the better known Magoesbaskloof Pass(R71) as a connecting road between Haenertsburg and Tzaneen. George's Valley runs north-east from the Ebenezer Dam to Tzaneen Dam. It is named after George Denys who designed the road (R528). He was convinced he could design a better road to Tzaneen than the Magoesbaskloof traverse. Georges Valley Road is an equally scenic drive and linking the two passes for a circular trip is well worth the drive. New Agatha State Forest is also accessible from the R528 (high clearance vehicle required). At the time of publishing many reports have come in of bad potholes developing on the R528.There is no indication from the authorities when the road is scheduled for maintenance.
This is one of the great classic passes of Limpopo province. It has less than 29 passes in total, but amongst those are some of the finest scenic passes in the land. This pass climbs 446 vertical meters to summit at 1400m ASL producing an average gradient of 1:17 with the steepest parts being at 1:9. The pass is tarred and is suitable for all vehicles.
The mountains here are a place of wonder, delight and perfect for adventure sports. The afro-montane forests provide the canopy to a playground of hikes, rock pools, waterfalls and MTB trails as the ever present mountain mists smother the pass in wet cloudy conditions.
Put your head lights on (not your parks) and be wide awake if you drive this one in the mist.
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