Last Updated: 21st Sep 2023
Archer Track
Submitted by Kerensa Leadbetter
Last Updated: 21st Sep 2023
Open
Grunt Factor: 20 ?
Gnarl Factor: 35 ?
18.0km
290m
290m
60m
Last Updated: 21st Sep 2023
Submitted by Kerensa Leadbetter
Last Updated: 21st Sep 2023
Open
Grunt Factor: 20 ?
Gnarl Factor: 35 ?
18.0km
290m
290m
60m
Front country - easily accessible
Out and Back
Undulating, small hills only
Dog Friendly
Native bush
Coastal
Easy Single Track
Moderate Single Track
Average Uphill Gradient: +14.9%
Average Downhill Gradient: -14.9%
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3:00
Slow
2:15
Moderate
1:30
Fast
Dogs allowed on lead and with Sounds Dog Permit
Easy to find and follow (no alternative or intersecting routes). DOC track - dogs prohibited. Some mountain bikers use the track so be aware, however it is generally a very quiet route with a few walkers and runners. The track is under native trees and pines, except the first (&last) 1.5kms so is pretty shaded but temperatures can soar in the summer - take plenty of water.
There is a section midway which is tidal (Deep Bay) and so you have a choice of wading through a creek or climbing around it if the tide is in. If it's out you will stay dry! Elaine Bay - Deep Bay is 4.5kms of easy single track, followed by 4.5km of moderate single track with lots of tree roots and small rocks through to Penzance Bay where there is a picnic area, jetty, beach and toilets. There are lots of gorgeous, elevated views of the Marlborough Sounds throughout the run. Then turn around and run back!
If you know of any public toilets near the trail start or on the route, please login and then let us know so we can update this section.
Plenty of free, accessible parking. No public transport available
69 km
78 minutes
Yes
No
Easy.
This is a well signposted trail
Non-existent.
Waterproof leggings, Long-sleeved thermal top, Seam-sealed waterproof jacket, Gloves, Beanie/thermal headwear, Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Survival blanket, Cellphone, Map
Water available at DOC toilets in Penzance Bay but needs to be treated/ filtered.
Very muddy after heavy rain.Take plenty of water. Tidal in one part.
Brick Oven, Rai Valley - coffee & breakfast. Not Licensed though so you may want to take a chilly bin with your own beer!
State Highway 6, Rai Valley, Marlborough
Fastest Known Times (FKTs)
You and Archer Track
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Easy run to get your legs turning over (if you want). Some nice views through the trees and a couple of swim spots for hot days. Definitely two distinctive halves - the second from Deep Bay to Penzance being through beech forest and more rooty underfoot.
January 14, 2021
Some lovely views balanced by a trail that becomes a bit same-ish. First half out is pretty average on what is basically a vehicle access tra k to the guy. Once past the hut (4.5km) however the trail is real trail to the end and much better to run. A nice day and run but nothing to rave about.
January 9, 2019
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