Last Updated: 20th Nov 2023
Peel Forest Tiki Tour
Submitted by Kieran Philip
Last Updated: 20th Nov 2023
Open
Grunt Factor: 32 ?
Gnarl Factor: 57 ?
15.4km
1160m
1160m
1286m
Last Updated: 20th Nov 2023
Submitted by Kieran Philip
Last Updated: 20th Nov 2023
Open
Grunt Factor: 32 ?
Gnarl Factor: 57 ?
15.4km
1160m
1160m
1286m
Front country - easily accessible
Loop
Mountainous
Native bush
Open tussock/grasslands
Open ridges/tops
Sealed Road
Gravel Road
Easy Single Track
Moderate Single Track
Technical Single Track
Average Uphill Gradient: +18.2%
Average Downhill Gradient: -16.6%
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4:30
Slow
3:30
Moderate
2:30
Fast
Starting at the carpark head up the gravel road until you read the trail head. Follow the signposted route for Emily Falls/South Ridge. This track then winds its way along and down to the Rata Stream which you go along a bit and cross. Follow the track along and then up the South Ridge, which becomes a poled route and heads up the ridge to reach Little Peel.
Once at the hut, make sure you pop to bag the trig, then continue on your way. Following the track along Deer Spur is a lot easier and is less technical - a chance to stretch the legs. Head down this for just under 3.5km and then take a left hand turn on to Allans track at the signpost. This winds its way north along the forest and is poled/marked with blazes. You'll meet up with the Acland Falls track, take a right and head down the stairs. Once you're in the open there is the nice little out and back to the 'Big Tree' or continue heading along the road keeping an eye out for The Fern Walk entrance signpost on your right. Follow this track back to the Deer Spur Track and then make your way back to the car.
This trail includes the peak Little Mount Peel/Huatekerekere.
Great views over the Canterbury Plains and native forest.
Parking space available off the street. Information board and toilet present as well.
25 km
26 minutes
Unknown
No
Moderate.
Generally well signposted. Follow blazes/poles on the South Ridge Route. The other points at Allans Track, Acland Falls Track, Big Tree Walk and The Fern Walk are all well signposted.
Generally good.
Waterproof leggings, Thermal leggings, Long-sleeved thermal top, Seam-sealed waterproof jacket, Beanie/thermal headwear, Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Cellphone, Map
Water tank at the hut up top.
Can be pretty unpleasant up on top, make sure you have your extra layers in case. Can be very muddy, lots of standing water during rain.
General footing issues.
Some exposed sections on the South Ridge Route near the top, so care needed.
Trail Legend
Fastest Known Times (FKTs)
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The South Ridge is definitely a more challenging way to the top but is well worth it for the views.
May 9, 2020
Great outing with an awesome mix of forrest and mountain running with some river crossings to boot. Great to be able to squeeze that into 15km.
September 28, 2019
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.
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