Totaranui Big LoopIntermediate

Description

This fantastic loop can be shortened at 2 points to either a 18km or 20 km run at points where the track drops back to Totaranui.

From the visitor centre run down the road (the Avenue under the London flame trees) and turn right to follow the Abel Tasman Coast Great Walk which you will follow north all the way to Wainui Saddle. The running is superb on smooth wide trail, then along stunning Anapai Beach then climb over to Mutton Cove where at the camp the track climbs inland up to a saddle, before dropping down to Whariwharangi Beach and Hut.

Top up your water in the camp from the filtered water tap, then the track climbs out of Whariwharangi up to Wainui saddle.Turn left at the saddle onto the Inland Track and follow it south as it climbs up to Gibbs Hill. The views are amazing with views of Golden and Tasman Bays plus the entire length of Farewell Spit, and on a clear day Mt Taranaki stands proud on the horizon!

Continue south past a turnoff back to Totaranui - the track undulates over open farm land and bush to Pigeon Saddle on the Totaranui Road. Run down the dusty road and at the junction turn right to Awaroa (or left to Totaranui 4 km for a shorter day.) Run towards Awaroa and halfway down the Awaroa Road is the start of the Waiharakeke track - follow this rough track till it meets the Abel Tasman Great Walk and turn left (north). You run across 2 lovely beaches - Waiharakeke and Goat Bay - then a final steep wee climb takes you up and down back into Totaranui and a big swim!

Features of interest

Golden sand beaches, clear blue sea, lush forest, historic hut and stunning views - this run is the Best of Abel Tasman National Park.

Make Up of Run

Technical Single Track: 10%

Moderate Single Track: 15%

Easy Single Track: 48%

Farm Road / 4WD Track: 10%

Gravel Road: 17%

Route Data