Last Updated: 15th Apr 2024

Intermediate

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Riverhead Gates Challenge

Auckland, Auckland

Last Updated: 15th Apr 2024

Intermediate

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I've done it Done

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Open

Grunt Factor: 59 ?

Gnarl Factor: 9 ?

67.0km

Length of run

1600m

Total Ascent

1600m

Total Descent

130m

Highest point

Driving Time

Driving Distance

Directions to start

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Trail Map

Type of Run

Front country - easily accessible

Loop

Undulating, some big hills

Dog Friendly

Native bush

Plantation/exotic forest

Run Makeup

50%

Gravel Road

Easy Single Track

Average Uphill Gradient: +3.9%

Average Downhill Gradient: -4.2%

Trailhead

Estimated Times to Run

10:00

Slow

8:00

Moderate

6:00

Fast

GPX File

Topo Map

3D Satellite

Guide

This is a run with a difference! While a route and gpx file are provided there are multiple ways you can attack this challenge. The goal is simple - visit each and every gate within the forest boundaries - there are 17 of them. Where you start, what order you do them in, and how you get between them is entirely down to you. Good luck!

NOTE: we suggest you take a gps map app with you as there are so many trails it is easy to get lost. There is no water on course, so take your entire supply with you. Also plenty of food.

There are many trails intertwining throughout this pine forest. Ideal for bikes, both pedal and motor, runners, walkers and horses and dogs. So the trails can be very busy at times. Some good climbs, and is notoriouosly muddy during winter - so go then you have more fun.

Transport and parking:

Plenty of room to park at the entrance way. If this carpark is full, there are a few entrances to the forest nearby you could park and walk back to the start of Barlow Road.

Distance from Auckland:

36 km

Driving time from Auckland:

34 minutes

Dog friendly:

Yes

Landowner permission required:

Navigation Rating:

Easy.

Navigation Tips:

Take a map app with you such as maps.me or trailforks

Cellphone Coverage:

Very patchy.

Suggested Gear List:

Short-sleeved thermal top, Long-sleeved thermal top, Seam-sealed waterproof jacket, Gloves, Beanie/thermal headwear, Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Cellphone, Map

Availability of Water:

No water on course.

Seasonality Issues:

Extremely muddy on trails during the winter months. Summer there is little to no water in streams.

Boric Food Market
Coatsville Riverhead Highway on the corner

Hallertau Brewery
Riverhead

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Trail Reviews

tony zhang

Probably the best way to explore the trails of Riverhead forest.
A solid topo map and/or a gpx file is recommended.
Certainly lives up to its name of being a "Challenge"!

tony zhang

July 25, 2021

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Overlapping Trails

These overlap with this trail to some degree. You may wish to combine them but please note that to qualify for FKTs on these runs you should record a separate activity for each.