Easy to Intermediate
Discover the wild West Coast as you journey from rugged coastline to alpine foothills on this 4-day West Coast Wilderness Cycle Trail itinerary.
Travel the West Coast Wilderness trail from the heart of Greymouth, along the Grey River to the rugged shoreline of the mighty West Coast. Ride past deserted sand dunes and tidal lagoons before meeting the expanse of the Taramakau River. From here, the trail turns inland toward the tiny gold mining town of Kumara.
Accommodation: Theatre Royal Hotel, Kumara
From Kumara climb gradually upwards to the Kawhaka Pass (317m). This section is rich with history from gold rush remnants to old logging trams. At the Waitaki Reserve, the trail descends through ancient podacarp forests and across a vast suspension bridge before finishing at the replica Wild West town of Cowboy Paradise.
Accommodation: Cowboy Paradise
Day 3 begins gently as you follow the Arahura River through lush native forests and open paddocks to Pyramid Hill. Here the trail travels upwards for a short time before arriving at beautiful Lake Kaniere a favourite with holiday makers. The lake gives way to the historic Kaniere Water Race and peaceful country roads, leading you on towards Hokitika, the wild food capital of New Zealand.
Accommodation: Hokitika
From Hokitika the trail follows a mix of new cycleway and historic tramline to the West Coast Treetops Walk. Stop to enjoy a coffee and stretch your legs amongst New Zealand’s tallest trees. The final section is complete with mountain vistas, disused rail routes and a tidal lagoon. Your journey ends at the historic goldfields of Ross.
Accommodation: Ross
