Bike the fantastic west coast wilderness trail from Ross to Greymouth
Bike the trail, go for an extra ride on the last day and enjoy a few walks
Reap the benefits of getting close to nature on a purpose built trail
Have a great time on tour
Discover New Zealand's beauty on this delightful tour
Bike over bridges, next to lakes and through the wilderness

West Coast Wilderness Cycle Trail

Duration
5 days
Site savings
$16
From
$1,533 USD

Explore wild coast, lakes and rainforest –backed by the mighty Southern Alps over 5 days of trail riding in NZ. Wedged between the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps and the Tasman Sea is the 140km West Coast Wilderness Trail. Weaving through the dense rainforests, glacial rivers, lakes and wetlands, a series of smooth flowing off-road tracks takes you from Ross to Greymouth. Encounter unique, beautiful birdlife, wander the Treetop Walkway through the canopy and see Punakaiki’s incredible pancake rocks as you cycle this wonderful route. The trip begins and ends in Christchurch.

  • Category
    Solo
  • Type
    Fully Guided
  • Duration
    5 days
  • Culture Level
    Familiar
  • Skill Level
    2 - Novice
  • Activity Level
    2 - Moderate
  • Elevation
    2 - Moderate
  • Terrain
    Mixed
  • Distance
    113.7 miles
  • Avg. Daily Distance
    22.7 miles
Best Price Guarantee
No booking or payment fees
Save $30 on your next booking
Loading tour details...

Quick Stats

  • Duration
    5 days
  • Main Destination
    South Island
  • Distance
    113.7 miles
  • Avg. Daily Distance
    22.7 miles
  • Elevation
    2 - Moderate
  • Terrain
    Mixed

Route Map (click to view larger image)

Itinerary Details

  1. Day 1Christchurch to Hokitika

    Your adventure begins with the drive inland across the picturesque Canterbury Plains, and across Arthur’s Pass with its towering, snow-capped peaks. On the west side of the Southern Alps, you will reach the old gold town of Ross, backed by ranges cloaked in native bush.

    After a late lunch, you’ll saddle up for the first ride on the West Coast Wilderness Trail. A stretch of rail-trail leads to Treetop Walkway where you’ll see Lake Mahinapua’s rainforest and wetlands from on high. You’ll then continue cruising through to Hokitika, a loveable little town fronted by a dramatic beach and famous for pounamu (greenstone) and other arts & crafts. And sunsets. Two nights here won’t feel like enough.

    • 20.5 miles
    • Accommodation in Hokitika
    • Lunch and Dinner
  2. Day 2Hokitika to Lake Kaniere

    Your ride today takes you inland through rural country to reach the bush-lined Kaniere water race – always a favorite for its flowing riding and babbling waters. Nestled in the forested foothills, Lake Kaniere is a grand sight indeed. You’ll follow its shores to reach the small township of Kokatahi where you’ll stop for a picnic lunch.

    Hokitika Gorge is up next. A short walkway offers a chance to see its granite boulders and swirling, surreal turquoise waters from many angles. From there, you’ll drive back to Hokitika where there’ll be time to explore the town some more and hopefully enjoy another West Coast sunset. Enjoy dinner of your choice in one of the town’s many restaurants and pubs.

    • 24.9 miles
    • Accommodation in Hokitika
    • Breakfast and Lunch
  3. Day 3Lake Kaniere to Kumara

    Today you will drive back to Lake Kaniere and continue the ride through the amazing bush trails of this cycleway. Firstly on rural roads and then the dedicated trail that takes you to the coffee stop at Milltown, home of saw-milling in earlier times. The trail crosses a swing bridge and then a kilometre of switchback climbing takes you to the highpoint and more superb riding.

    From here it's mainly downhill, as you follow water races, bush tracks and reservoir roads taking in the spectacular views as you gradually descend to the overnight stop at Kumara and the beautiful historic hotel that is your accommodation.

    • 34.2 miles
    • Theatre Royal Hotel, Kumara
    • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  4. Day 4Kumara to Punakaiki

    Your final day on the Wilderness Trail takes you north to Greymouth on a combination of riverside and coastal pathways. The old road and rail bridge is just one highlight as you head towards the town center. After a café lunch, there’s time for a stroll around the town or an optional visit to the historic Monteith's Brewery.

    In the afternoon you will drive the stunning coastal highway to explore Paparoa National Park. First, you’ll explore the Pororari River with its dramatic limestone gorge, then take the Truman Track through striking sub-tropical forest to reach a rugged beach. The final walk is the leisurely stroll around Punakaiki’s Dolomite Point, famous for its Pancake Rocks and blow thundering holes.

    You’ll stay overnight in Punakaiki, a fitting finale for your final group dinner and reflection on the West Coast adventure.

    • 18.6 miles
    • Accommodation in Punakaiki
    • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  5. Day 5Punakaiki to Christchurch

    Leaving the West Coast behind, you’ll begin the journey back towards Christchurch. Before crossing the alps, you’ll get dropped off for one last ride along quiet roads to reach Moana on the shores of Lake Brunner. With luck, there’ll be time for a refreshing dip (optional!) before lunch.

    For those who choose the train journey, you'll board the TranzAlpine, rated as one of the top train rides in the world, for an unforgettable journey across the Southern Alps and across the Canterbury Plains back to Christchurch. For the rest, you'll drive back via Arthur's Pass to arrive in Christchurch in the early evening.

    Note: Please let us know at the time of booking whether you wish to reserve a seat on the TranzAlpine train.

    • 15.5 miles
    • Breakfast