Description

You'll see the sign at the start of the track for the Hakarimata Trail to Parker Road. The first 1.5 kms is flat and a nice easy warm up through a track on grass fields, before turning right onto the track towards Parker Road, where you have another 1.5 kms of gentle climbing, on a well maintained track with steps.

At about 3km the terrain changes and becomes more technical, and there are some steep slopes to scramble up. At 4.5 kms you will join with the Hakarimata Summit Track (Huks steps) where it's a 100m or so to the summit. Take in the view at the viewing tower before heading off again. The track continues past the Helicopter Pad, but the entrance can be overgrown sometimes. This track is maintained at tramping track level so can be seriously overgrown sometimes, so keep an eye out for the orange markers and expect some stops while you navigate the terrain. It's rooty and sometimes very steep underfoot.

The track continues for about 8 kms on this route. Then you will meet up with the north end track, and descend the steps for the final 1.5 or so kms. Recommended to wear long pants or socks, and good trail shoes, as there is gorse and grass. Either return by road back to the carpark (11.5kms) or get picked up...or if you're hard as nails - go back the way you came!

Make Up of Run

Technical Single Track: 70%

Moderate Single Track: 20%

Easy Single Track: 10%

Route Data