West Coast Biking Trails

 

One of the countries ‘Great Walks’ is now a ‘Great Ride’ and perfect for those fit enough and looking for a challenge. Plus NZ's newest 85km Grade 4 Old Ghost Road trail.

West CoastWest Coast Heaphy Track

Mountain Biking the Heaphy Track

One of the countries ‘Great Walks’ is now a ‘Great Ride’ and perfect for those fit enough and looking for a challenge. The Heaphy offers a rare opportunity to mountain bike through the beautiful Kahurangi National Park on a coast to coast journey through New Zealand’s true wilderness. The track, known for its contrasts in terrain, navigates through tussock, native forest and nikau palm through to the Wild West Coast Ocean. The trip is equally rewarding traveling in either direction and offers some of the best mountain biking in New Zealand.

Historically used by Maori traveling from Golden Bay to the West Coast to collect pounamu (Green Stone) the track is now controlled by the Department of Conservation (DOC) and can only be ridden in the winter months from May to September.

Fit parties need only take 2 days, overnighting at one of the DOC Huts on the way. 6 to 9 hours riding required each day (In winter 9 hours is all the daylight you get) to complete the track. Those that wish to take their time and enjoy the environment will comfortably do it in 3 days.

Track Conditions: The track varies from smooth and wide, fast flowing trail to technical and rocky  with steep and exposed sections with the frequent crossing of streams required.

Skill: Intermediate to advanced mountain biking skills are required as the terrain is mostly advanced Grade 4 and can become tricky in the rain.

Fitness: A good level of biking fitness.

Duration: 2-4 days, 1-3 nights.

Options: Fully supported and self-guided options (see contact details at the bottom of the page to get further info).

Old Ghost Road

In 2016 an 85 km trail opened on the Coast. This is a Grade 4 (advanced) walking and mountain biking trail with a variable natural surface. Not for everyone, this trail includes long steep climbs, narrow sections, poor traction and difficult obstacles to avoid or ride over. There are nice new DOC huts to stay in along the way as well as 14 bridges. Rideable in 2-4 days. 


Pricing terms

The price is based on current exchange rates but is only an approximation. Please contact us for a final price