Last Updated: 21st Sep 2023

Beginner

Save Trail Save

I've done it Done

High on Hikuwai

Wanaka, Otago

Submitted by Malcolm Law

Last Updated: 21st Sep 2023

Beginner

Save Trail Save

I've done it Done

Open

Grunt Factor: 9 ?

Gnarl Factor: 14 ?

8.9km

150m

150m

330m

  

  

  

Login as a VIP to see driving directions, distance and time.

Trail Map

Type of Run

Urban fringe

Loop

Undulating, small hills only

Dog Friendly

Native bush

Plantation/exotic forest

Run Makeup

5%
90%
5%

Farm Road / 4WD Track

Easy Single Track

Moderate Single Track

Average Uphill Gradient: +3.3%

Average Downhill Gradient: -4.0%

Trailhead

Login as a VIP to see the trailhead information.

Estimated Times to Run

1:20

Slow

1:00

Moderate

0:40

Fast

This is a MTB trail developed by the good people at Bike Wanaka. It is clearly marked with 'Hikuwai Loop' signs at all key junctions:

These signs will only be visible if you run the route in a clockwise direction, which is also the safest way to do it given the MTB traffic.

The only part of the loop that might provide you with any navigational challenges is the section through the Outlet Campground. You enter this about 2.5k into the run. When you first hit the campground gravel road bear left for about 20m and then take the Mt Barker Track (also signposted with a smaller Hikuwai Loop sign). Just 50m further on turn left again on to the Mt Alta Track (which has another smaller Hikuwai Loop sign) and follow the campground road parallel to the river. About 100m further along (just after camp spot no. 64 & opposite camp spot no. 65 the trail bears off to the right and becomes single track again. Once more there is a Hikuwai Loop sign to show you the way. A short section of trail takes you downhill towards the river and emerges just short of the Outlet 4WD road. Here you turn right almost 180 degrees and head back uphill into mixed kanuka/pine, following the now familiar Hikuwai Loop signs.

The rest of the run is just a case of following the signs.... should be easy peasy!

Lovely regenerating kanuka bush; glimpses of lake, mountains and river

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.

Parking is at the side of the road - room for 4 or 5 vehicles. Safe, but keep valuables out of sight just in case

4 km

5 minutes

Yes

No

Easy.

Just follow the "Hikuwai Loop' MTB signs that are mostly at ground level

Generally good.

Short-sleeved thermal top, Windproof jacket, First aid kit, Cellphone

No water on the route - bring your own

Can be a bit muddy after heavy rain and icy in winter

This is a MTB track - run it only in the prescribed clockwise direction, be alert for MTB'ers and give way if you meet any.

Trail Legend

Shonagh North

Shonagh North

has completed High on Hikuwai 10 times in the last year.

Learn about Trail Legends.

You and High on Hikuwai

As a VIP member you can record private notes for this trail, see all of your times and more.

Register Now

Already have an account? Login now

Trail Reviews

At the eastern end just trust the signs (or downloaded GPS trail) ..... feels like you are going in circles the first time!

Neil Trimboy

January 23, 2021

Well worn track makes for easy running down to the lake front. Crystal clear water makes it easy to see the trout rising to take surface flies. No wind, no rain, no people. Gorgeous.

John OConnell

December 21, 2020

Login to submit a review

Trail Running Community

Find people who are interested in or have completed this trail run.

You must register or login to view this feature.

Register Now

Other trails nearby
Matukituki Cascade Saddle Dart Epic

Matukituki Cascade Saddle Dart Epic

Length: 61.0km

Level: Experienced

Butterfields Wetlands Loop

Butterfields Wetlands Loop

Length: 6.5km

Level: Beginner

Luggate to Albert Town

Luggate to Albert Town

Length: 16.0km

Level: Beginner

Wanaka Skyline Trail

Wanaka Skyline Trail

Length: 23.4km

Level: Intermediate - Experienced

Find more trails and peaks nearby