Last Updated: 30th Jan 2024

Beginner

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The Pyramid

Twizel, Canterbury

Submitted by Renee Ferguson

Last Updated: 30th Jan 2024

Beginner

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I've done it Done

Open

Grunt Factor: 16 ?

Gnarl Factor: 10 ?

17.0km

265m

265m

750m

  

  

  

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Trail Map

Type of Run

Front country - easily accessible

Loop

Undulating, some big hills

Native bush

Riverside

Open tussock/grasslands

Run Makeup

85%
5%
5%
5%

Farm Road / 4WD Track

Easy Single Track

Moderate Single Track

Technical Single Track

Average Uphill Gradient: +4.6%

Average Downhill Gradient: -3.0%

Trailhead

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Estimated Times to Run

2:30

Slow

1:50

Moderate

1:20

Fast

This is a great track for all levels, in summer it is popular as part of the Dusky trail - so there are a lot of mountain bikers around. Easy to follow with bright orange poles the entire way. Its a straightforward track - up over the hill and then straight down the valley, hot in summer and freezing in winter. A few minor stream crossings where it's guaranteed wet feet so plan for that. No toilets or water and its farmland so be considerate during lambing etc

Awesome views of the mountain ranges

Plenty of parking either off the road in the car park, or for a bit of visibility park next to the canal where there are usually at least a few fishermen around

8 km

10 minutes

Unknown

No

Easy.

Once you hit the Pyramid lookout point, head down the gravel/4wd track and keep an eye out for the orange poles - keep them in sight and you can't go wrong

Generally good.

Thermal leggings, 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.

There are a few streams that have snow melt - but it is through farmed land... I have drunk from it with no issues

Cold winds at the top in winter, and ice and snow on much of the trail. In summer, it gets very hot and a sunhat is a must

Shawtys or Ministry of Work
Twizel town square
Awesome coffee at Shawtys, and the curly fries and beer at Ministry of Work :-) (both in the same location, owned by the same person)

Trail Legend

JD

Jono Dobbs

has completed The Pyramid twice in the last year.

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Trail Reviews

A really nice loop, thoroughly enjoyed it. I did this on a hot day so was quite aware of the lack of shade on the route.

David Frusher

January 24, 2023

A nice loop but don't be lulled by the apparent minimal vert over the full loop. It all seems to come in one big hit just before the saddle! The route to the saddle is over farmland and forestry (there may be cattle and maybe skip this run if you are scared of cows like my wife - in reality they were far more scared of me than I was of them). After the saddle it becomes more typical high country river valley before turning along the grassy riverside trail and swamp land to get you back to the start. Certainly can get quite soggy around that point but good for keeping your feet cool!

Daniel Pettigrew

November 30, 2022

As per prior reviews, an enjoyable loop that is easy access and handy to Twizel. Run through the Forest before a short slog up a reasonably steep hill (Best to open the gates as you go, vaulting fences can be shocking!) After a short descent the profile eases substantially (there is no real second hill) before descending gently with river crossing and a few soft/boggy spots. Follow the orange poles but BEWARE the trail junctions at 7km and 11.5km... they too are marked with orange poles and will lead you astray if you have your head down. (keep veering right/going clockwise)

Bryan Stout

October 17, 2022

Great outing if you are visiting Twizel. Some great views, forrest running and river crossings. Thoroughly enjoyed it.

Michael Dickerson

October 12, 2019

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