3 minute read
MOLESWORTH Muster Trail
BLENHEIM to HANMER SPRINGS, 3-5 days, 207km
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Venture onto old dirt roads journeying from Blenheim to Hanmer Springs via Molesworth Station, the largest and most remote working farm in New Zealand. You will see more sheep than civilisation.
Most riders start the 207km trail from Blenheim, taking the Taylor Pass Rd to the Awatere Valley, skirting the banks of both the Awatere River, and later, the Acheron River. Shifting between grassland and hillside, it’s not a technical ride, but at 207km, it’s lengthy. Some of the steeper inclines will give your thighs a good workout, too.
To compensate your aches, the scenery astounds. Waterfalls, cirque basins and tarns are etched from glaciers from previous ice ages, while the vegetation, especially in Clarence River Valley is a palette of colour. As you pass into Marlborough wine country, the route is littered with vineyards.
The ride finishes in the exotic spa town of Hanmer Springs, where a replenishing hot pool is exactly what your legs are begging for.
TRAIL GRADE:
GRADE 4 (ADVANCED)
ACCESS: This cycle route is generally open to public access from Labour Weekend until Easter, subject to weather conditions and fire danger. To request access outside of the open period, please contact the Department of Conservation’s South Marlborough Area Office for an access permit. Cyclists are advised against riding this trail during winter or after heavy rainfall. If you do ride outside the open period, on an access permit, please keep DOC updated if your plans change.
MOBILE PHONE COVERAGE: Little reception outside Blenheim and Hanmer Springs areas.
DRINKING WATER: Water can be drawn from the river and streams along the route. While it is mostly suitable for drinking, it is recommended that water is boiled (3min), filtered or treated before drinking.
TYPE OF BIKE: A ship-shape mountain bike is essential for the remoteness and terrain; e-bikes are permitted.
Vine harvest, Hans Herzog Estate © Jessica Jones Photography
RIDING THE TRAIL
Starting in Blenheim, head south from the i-SITE to reach the bridge where you can drop down to the shared walking and cycling path running alongside the Taylor River. Crossing any bridge to get on to the ‘town’ side of the riverbank (there are paths both sides and numerous bridges along the way), follow the path for approximately 5km as far as Wither Rd.
Turn left on to Wither Rd and then right at the first intersection on to Taylor Pass Rd. Stay on this road, which travels up over Taylor Pass and down into the Awatere Valley.
Hang a right on to Awatere Valley Rd and follow your nose past some of Marlborough’s famous vineyards all the way up the valley and then through Molesworth Station.
Molesworth Station is a working farm, so please keep to the road. Leave gates as you find them and respect stock and property.
Approaching Hanmer Springs you’ll come to a three-way junction at the top of Jacks Pass. If you’re keen for more cycling, you could always hang a right here onto the Rainbow Trail, a 112km cycle trail through to St Arnaud – you’ll want to restock supplies in Hanmer first, no doubt.
Heading left down Clarence Valley Rd, you’ll enjoy a long downhill into the Hanmer Springs township and the famous hot thermal springs, which will do much to help your recovery.
Hanmer Springs waterfall © Natasha Shearer
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE TRAIL
• The lonely but beautiful Molesworth Rd.
• Passing over Waiau Ferry Bridge which was opened in 1887.
• Campsites such as historic Molesworth Cob Cottage (1866) and Acheron Accommodation House (1862) once served early travellers.
• Enjoy a spot of fishing, bird watching or a splash in one of many swimming holes.
Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa © Natasha Shearer
• Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa features over 14 mineral pools, waterslides and an indulgent menu of spa treatments.
MAIN IMAGE ABOVE: Molesworth Station © Department of Conservation
