Last Updated: 21st Sep 2023

Intermediate

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I've done it Done

Croydon Bush - Richardson loop

Gore, Southland

Submitted by Marcia Karaitiana

Last Updated: 21st Sep 2023

Intermediate

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I've done it Done

Open

Grunt Factor: 17 ?

Gnarl Factor: 87 ?

6.2km

495m

490m

613m

  

  

  

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Trail Map

Type of Run

Front country - easily accessible

Loop

Undulating, some big hills

Native bush

Open ridges/tops

Run Makeup

100%

Technical Single Track

Average Uphill Gradient: +16.1%

Average Downhill Gradient: -15.9%

Trailhead

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Estimated Times to Run

1:20

Slow

1:05

Moderate

0:45

Fast

This loop is 'easier' if you start by going up to Grant's Lookout first, it is a steady climb from the get go. The track can be boggy over winter, but is dry underfoot spring and summer. Lots of tree roots and rocks to work on your agility!
After reaching the lookout (admire the view) turn right and follow the track through undulating bush (generally gets boggy in here year round!). A sharp climb will take you to the decision making point - straight down the guts for the middle track (very rocky, lots of climbing here) or carry on round to do Richardson's track. Admire the view once more at East Peak before heading down the steep, rocky but easy to follow track.
Warning - the weather closes in quickly here!

You get a stunning view of Eastern Southland from the top!

Easy parking at the end of Croydon Bush Road (never seen the car park area chocca!)

9 km

10 minutes

Unknown

No

Moderate.

Generally good.

Short-sleeved thermal top, Windproof jacket, Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Cellphone, Map.

There is a stream at the bottom of Richardson's track.

Can get very boggy through the gully between Grant's and East Peak.
Can be very windy at East Peak but when in the bush you are well under cover.

Thomas Green
3 Medway Street, Gore
https://www.thethomasgreen.co.nz/
Damn good food!

Trail Legend

PH

Petrus Hedman

has completed Croydon Bush - Richardson loop twice in the last year.

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Trail Reviews

Cracking run with amazing views at the top. Had the benefit of a fine day and dry track. Plenty of hands on knees moments on way up but lots of opportunities to fang it down Grant's Track when coming home. Definitely one for the Peak Directory as well.

Anthony Sowerby

February 11, 2023

Great varied tracks with good view at the top of East Peak. Can do an extra loop and take in the middle track which is more technical than Grants and Richardson tracks. Although not long, good vert and with each loop ending at the same place you can mix it up to suit your time/distance/technical desires.

Jessica Campbell

February 23, 2019

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