Saddle UpBeginner
Submitted by Tony Sharpe
Front country - easily accessible
Out and Back
Undulating, some big hills
Open farmlandsOpen tussock/grasslandsOpen ridges/topsVolcanic
Beginner
1:00 (Slow)
0:45 (Moderate)
0:30 (Fast)
-13.3%
+13.4%
Check with DOC round lambing time
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Description
The trail is well marked from the carpark. Hop through the old stockyard (literally) and then follow the well defined trail up past a couple of small peaks. The trail then follows fencelines and defined ridges until you spot the trig sitting on the summit. Follow the obvious trails to the top and soak in the amazing views from Akaroa to the Pacific Ocean to Lake Ellesmere and the Southern Alps beyond the plains. Truly a gem of a place to be, and a real wild feel for a shorter trail. Grunty vert too.
This is great to run in combo with the stunning Tumble Down Te Oka, which is back along the road a bit. A highly recommended afternoon of dual trail mahi!
Trail Community
Features of interest
Stunning views of ancient volcanic landscape
Make Up of Run
Moderate Single Track: 100%
Route Data
Reviews:
Photos:
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Access
Drive up the hills from Little River.
Parking at trailhead, look for the DOC sign for Saddle Hill Reserve
13 km
21 minutes
No
No
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Staying Safe
Easy.
Well poled but it can often be misty up here being so high, so choose your weather if you want the view
Patchy.
Long-sleeved thermal top, Seam-sealed waterproof jacket, Gloves, Beanie/thermal headwear, Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Cellphone, Map.
No water up here, fill up at Little River or home
Very exposed high tops, you probably don't want to do this one in bad weather.
Some steep drop offs near the top
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Post run indulgence
Pop down to Little River for cafes and pub
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