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Mostly downhill all the way with a dramatic change in scenery from bush to scrub to open tussock.


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Map Key

4.3

Miles

6.9

KM

Singletrack

2,922' 891 m

High

2,032' 619 m

Low

191' 58 m

Up

1,067' 325 m

Down

6%

Avg Grade (3°)

18%

Max Grade (10°)

Dogs No Dogs

E-Bikes Unknown

Open to mountain biking May 1st to September 30th each year.

Description

This 7km section of the Heaphy Track starts with a rough downhill section through scrub and native bush before emerging onto the spectacular Gouland Downs with expansive tussock plains, distant mountain ranges, and granite rock outcrops. This section of track is currently being upgraded to suit intermediate riders.

Along the way, you pass the famous tramping boot post, which has had a collection of tramping boots and other tramping equipment that have been attached to it over the years and provides a fun photo opportunity.

The historic Gouland Downs Hut is about halfway to Saxon Hut. Although an older style hut, it has been tastefully renovated and has more character than the newer huts. Near the Gouland Downs Hut, a grove of beech trees adorns a limestone outcrop that contains several caves, arches, and caverns that are well worth exploring. Kiwi are often heard at night around Gouland Downs Hut.

There is a long-drop toilet, fresh water and a great old-school fireplace here, but no lighting, or gas-cooking facilities.

Contacts

Local Club: MTB Trails Trust

Land Manager: Department of Conservation

Shared By:

Alan Eskrick

Trail Ratings

  5.0 from 1 vote

#4689

Overall
  5.0 from 1 vote
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Trail Rankings

#47

in New Zealand

#4,689

Overall
1 Views Last Month
85 Since Aug 28, 2015
Intermediate Intermediate

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Photos

Climbing on a gentle grade from Gouland Downs to Perry Saddle.
Sep 26, 2015 near Takaka, NZ
Gouland Downs Hut
Aug 6, 2015 near Takaka, NZ
Descending from Perry Saddle to Gouland Downs
Aug 6, 2015 near Takaka, NZ
Inside Perry Saddle 'Hut'. More like a mansion!
Aug 6, 2015 near Takaka, NZ

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