Holliss Stairway to HeavenBeginner - Intermediate

Description

This is a great shortish loop for those wanting some vertical on good trails but with enough technical stuff to vindicate your trail running existence for another day. It links onto numerous other trail options as does anything on the Port Hills, but as a standalone loop its a great chance to push yourself on a short hill.

Head across to the river from the Library and follow south down Hunter Terrace. Cross Malcolm Ave and pick up the riverside trail. Cross Centaurus Rd and head up Hollis Ave which soon begins to climb steeply and elevates your pulse rate rapidly. At the end of the road pick up the short but sweet Holliss Track which will give you a great stairs workout.

Catch your breath when you hit Longhurst, cross the road and pick up the Latter Spur Track which hugs the ridgeline all the way up to Victoria Park. Head round east of the playground and take a swift and awesome zig zagging descent down the East Side Bush Track to the bottom of the Bowenvale Valley.

The Christchurch City Council has built a new trail down the Bowenvale to separate those on foot from downhill mountain bikers but you will still need to watch out behind you as you head out the last bit to Bowenvale Ave.

Complete the circuit back to the library with a fast 2km of roads and riverside running

Features of interest

Victoria Park
Bowenvale Valley
Classic Port Hills trails

Make Up of Run

Technical Single Track: 10%

Moderate Single Track: 40%

Easy Single Track: 30%

Sealed Road: 20%

Route Data