Use onX Backcountry to explore the terrain in 3D, view recent satellite imagery, and more.
Now available in onX Backcountry Mobile apps!
For more information see this post.
Open for mountain bikes May 1st to September 30th only. No night riding. Maximum group size six. Hut bookings required in advance through doc.govt.nz/heaphytrack
Description
The Heaphy River mouth is an exciting place. The river surges out through a narrow gap into the sea; incoming waves halt the flow and the churning of salt and fresh waters is spectacular.
The 16.2 km of track south to Kohaihai is through forest although beach walking is possible in some places. Some of the small streams are not bridged and can be dangerous after heavy rain. The forest has rata and karaka trees, many vines, and groves of nikau palms. Be careful of the stinging nettle that grows in some places.
Just beyond Katipo Creek is Crayfish (Koura) Point. There is no high tide track over the point and where the track follows the top of the beach can be impassable two hours or so either side of high tide when sea conditions are rough. Check tide tables in the Heaphy Hut or Kohaihai Shelter before proceeding over this section.
From Scotts Beach the track begins climbing over Kohaihai Saddle and down through wind-blasted shrubs to a bridge across the Kohaihai River. The track follows the riverbank for 400m to Kohaihai carpark where there is a shelter and phone.
DOC has put a lot of work into upgrading the track surface so it is not now difficult riding, however, it is a ride that should be on everyone's bucket list for the scenery.
Moderately steep. Uneven terrain with small rocks or roots.
Sizable rocks & roots. Steep sections.
Steep. Some technical terrain and limited alternate lines.
Very steep. Technical terrain with no alternate lines.
Difficulty Rating
Average from 1 vote:
Intermediate
Your Rating
Virtual Tour of Heaphy Track: Heaphy Hut to Kohaihai
We use cookies to improve your browsing experience, to show you
personalized content, and for statistical purposes. By continuing
to navigate our website, you accept our use of cookies. Read our
Privacy Policy to learn more.
0 Comments