Last Updated: 23rd Jun 2024

Beginner - Intermediate

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Graham's Grunt

Dunedin, Otago

Submitted by Ultra Pīwakawaka

Last Updated: 23rd Jun 2024

Beginner - Intermediate

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I've done it Done

Open

Grunt Factor: 17 ?

Gnarl Factor: 33 ?

10.0km

650m

650m

680m

  

  

  

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Trail Map

Type of Run

Urban fringe

Out and Back

Very hilly

Dog Friendly

Native bush

Run Makeup

10%
60%
20%
10%

Gravel Road

Easy Single Track

Moderate Single Track

Technical Single Track

Average Uphill Gradient: +17.6%

Average Downhill Gradient: -7.9%

Trailhead

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Estimated Times to Run

2:00

Slow

1:30

Moderate

1:00

Fast

Once you've parked, continue up the gravel road. Graham's Bush signage should be clear. There is a large gate at the end of the road. Climb the steps to the left, and then continue a short distance before veering left onto the track, and then it's a short jog before reaching a small gate and the start of the track.

This beautiful reserve features a plethora of korimako, which can make for a very musical run. The track is close to running water which is crossed at points over short bridges. Expect some slippery rocks and mud year round, but especially after recent rainfall. Some pockets of the track are nestled into a wee nook and tend to stay wet. Once you're at the top you have options! You can take the track back the way you came, or you can make your way back to the Bethune's Gully track and make your way down there and back (if you're feeling like a double climb!) - otherwise, take some time to enjoy the scenery and some of the different sights such as the Organ Pipes and Butter's Peak.

This trail includes the peak Mount Cargill.

Grahams Bush Reserve was originally the site of sawmills and brick kilns operated by David Bethune in the 1880s, and became city council property in 1955. Mt Cargill rewards all climbers with a stunning panorama of Dunedin and the Otago Harbour. The Organ Pipes are close by, which are unique volcanic rock formations.

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 on street parking near the end of Hall Rd. Don't drive up the gravel road as there's no parking and turning can be tricky.

14 km

20 minutes

Yes

No

Easy.

Follow the description and clear signage and you shouldn't miss it.

Generally good.

Windproof jacket, Gloves, Beanie/thermal headwear, Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Cellphone, Map

The stream meets the track near the start of the track. Unsure if the water is drinkable.

Muddy and slippery rocks after rain. Exposed to cold winds at the summit.

Keep an eye out for livestock at the beginning of the track which rarely wander down from a neighbouring private driveway.

Futomaki
Port Chalmers
https://www.facebook.com/FutomakiPortNZ/
Sensational food, fresh and full of flavour. Friendly and quick service. Unbeatable prices!

Trail Legend

Mike Tennent

Mike Tennent

has completed Graham's Grunt once in the last year.

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Trail Reviews

Sandra is just upset he hasn't qualified for Crush the Cargill.

Andrew Glennie

June 27, 2021

Tough and quite technical in places. Great views at the top

Tom Sweeney

January 25, 2021

A bit steeper and more technical than the climb from Bethune’s Gully but the same beautiful views from the top. And a tough climb up is always rewarded with a fun descent!

Joe Benbow

January 12, 2021

The real Crush the Cargill - don't listen to the propaganda spewed from Bethune's Gully!

Sándor Tóth

December 29, 2020

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Overlapping Trails

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.

Mt Cargill and Organ Pipes

Mt Cargill and Organ Pipes

Length: 10.5km

Level: Beginner - Intermediate

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