Explore wild coast, lakes and rainforest –backed by the mighty Southern Alps over 5 days of trail riding in NZ. Wedged between the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps and the Tasman Sea is the 140km West Coast Wilderness Trail. Weaving through the dense rainforests, glacial rivers, lakes and wetlands, a series of smooth flowing off-road tracks takes you from Ross to Greymouth. Encounter unique, beautiful birdlife, wander the Treetop Walkway through the canopy and see Punakaiki’s incredible pancake rocks as you cycle this wonderful route. The trip begins and ends in Christchurch.
Following the path of long-gone railways, logging trams, and water races from the mining days, you’ll soak up colourful stories from the past with the expert guides showing you the trail’s best sights such as gold rush relics, wildlife, and hidden natural wonders.
You’ll also take a trip on the TranzAlpine, one of the world’s most spectacular train journeys, through Arthur's Pass National Park and walk the Pororari River & Truman Track – two West Coast must-do’s.
Character-filled towns, atmospheric accommodation and friendly welcomes are all part of the package, as is the passion and local knowledge of the crew.
The West Coast Wilderness Trail is graded introductory to moderate. You will be cycling on a mix of wide trails, narrow water races and boardwalk with some undulating hills. You will need a reasonable level of fitness and the tour operator suggests 2 hours of cycling per week for the three months leading up to your trip. They recommend training on compacted gravel trails and completing a multi-day ride prior to your trip to get used to being in the saddle for long periods of time. The more training you have done on hills and on compacted gravel, the more enjoyable your trip will be.