The GREAT RIDES
During my two spells in New Zealand these trails not only got me into bikepacking in the first place, they also stunned me and created memories of a lifetime. The Great Rides are rated on a 1-5 scale from total noob to enduro expert and prove to be just as varied in landscape, ranging from the rainforested sounds up into Alpine backcountry. This is but a limited overview of my experiences (2017-2019). For recent info please check their website. Enjoy the ride!
Alps 2 Ocean
– 300km + 800m, grade 2-3
Possibly one of the world’s greatest cycle routes: Accessible yet stunning, five days of sublime Alpine vistas and blissful, easy riding from Aoraki’s peak to Steampunk town Oamaru.
Read more…
Central Otago Rail Trail
– 150km + 600m, grade 1
A trail so simple yet stunning I actually rode it twice – as my first bike trip ever and returning two years later… The harmony of dusty Gold Rush era towns and magnificent horizons of the Maniototo is unforgettable. Plus fun features like tunnels, viaducts, quirky discoveries and the country’s finest singletrack nearby.
Read more: First ride / Reverse (2018)
Heaphy Track
– 80km + 1500m, grade 3-4
Going backcountry was never easier. A wild and wonderful singletrack ride through Gondwana forest from the wild west coast up into tussock highlands.
Read more…
Queen Charlotte Trail
– 74km + 2800m, grade 3-5
Another combined hike & MTB trail in the South Island’s north, it takes in the sawtooth profile of the Marlborough Sounds. Stunning and challenging enough for an overnighter, particularly in a rainstorm…
Read more…
St James Cycle Trail
– 100km + 1400m, grade 4
Think big, then go solo. A daring trail for an overnight epic in the high valley between Canterbury’s awesome peaks. Raw, mighty and remote.
Read more…
Timber Trail
– 80km + 1500m, grade 2
A little trip into the bush of the North Island, tracing the historical timber railroad. Best bridges ever and wonderful singletrack through endless forest.
Read more...
shoresandhorizons 