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Built before the bicycle was even invented, this rugged miners trail weaves through mountains. One of the best tracks in the country.
One of the best mountain bike tracks in the country was built over a century before the invention of the mountain bike. In the 1870s, immigrants in search of gold swung pick and shovel to form a pack track that could be used by laden pack horses. It climbs 1000 metres up onto the wild Victoria Range, from where, on a cloudless day, the West Coast is laid out like a three dimensional map. The track starts from Blackball, the ghost town that refuses to die. It still has a small salami factory, a smaller library, and a rustic hotel called ‘Formerly the Blackball Hilton’.
The Croesus Track is Greymouth’s premier mountain biking experience. It starts from Blackball as a gravel road and soon enters dense forest on a technical single track beside Blackball Creek. There are several mining relics to investigate, giving you a chance to regain your breath. Perched just above the treeline is Ces Clark Hut, an inviting place for lunch, or to stay overnight. It has incredible views. The track is rideable right up onto the Paparoa Range, from where most riders turn back and return the same way for an exhilarating, old-school downhill back to Blackball.
Find out more at the trail website(opens in new window).
Inside knowledge: The Croesus Track is a great day ride but make the most of the stunning views by staying overnight at the Ces Clark Hut.
Greymouth has a range of accommodation types. Explore a few options here.
Get in touch with Sportsworld(opens in new window).
Blue Spur Track, Glacier Tracks, West Coast Wilderness Trail
