Queen Charlotte Track
The Queen Charlotte Track – Why
walk when you can ride?
T
he Queen Charlotte Track is one of New Zealand’s bestloved walking trails, but it is also a popular destination for mountain bikers as one of New Zealand’s Great Rides on the Ngā Haerenga New Zealand Cycle Trail. It offers a unique combination of beautiful coastal scenery, native bush, stunning views and New Zealand history. The natural appeals are complimented by easy access, an outstanding choice of hosted accommodation, pack transfers and a wide variety of flexible options for day or multiday trips, including all-inclusive packages from local providers. It offers bikers an exhilarating
and challenging experience over 72km and is able to be biked comfortably in three days. The Queen Charlotte Track has long been regarded as one of the best single tracks in the country. The track is graded as advanced/ grade 4 for mountain biking although some sections are easier than others and lend themselves to day rides for those not wanting to attempt the entire track. The demographic of those riding the track is also changing as biking grows in popularity amongst older age groups. Most riders will find some sections of the track easier to walk and you will likely need to push your bike in certain parts.
Above: Meet the friendly locals along the way! If you are fit and experienced at mountain biking, most of the track is very rideable, albeit steep and challenging in certain sections, especially when rain has rendered it slippery and muddy. Less experienced riders may prefer to avoid the ridge-top sections of the central part of the track by riding along Kenepuru Road between Kenepuru Saddle and Portage Bay, still enjoying
The Queen Charlotte Track The iconic Queen Charlotte Track, stretching from Meretoto/Ship Cove to Anakiwa, is a journey from past to present, via panoramic ocean views, thriving native bush and encounters with the likes of weka, fantail, wood pigeon and even seals. Visit to find out more.
Book your water taxis, accommodation and track pass with Marlborough i-SITES on 0800 777 181 www.walkingnewzealand.co.nz
Walking New Zealand, issue no 268 - 2020
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