Cascades has been used as the unofficial “home” of mountain biking in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa for some years now as it offers superb riding conditions in the heart of the province. Being located next to a shopping centre also enhances its appeal through proximity to facilities and parking.
South Africa hosted its first World Cup ever in 2009 and Pietermaritzburg was chosen as the host city as it is one of only a few cities that can accommodate Cross Country, Downhill and Xc Eliminator at the same venue. Cascades hosted the 2011 and 2012 World cups and hosted the World masters Championship and the Elite World Championship in August 2013.
The KZN MTB Commission (a volunteer organisation) has taken charge of maintaining the Cascades area, building new trails, marking them up with signage, keeping the trails maintained and the area clean.