Last Updated: 21st Sep 2023
Pillars of Hercules
Last Updated: 21st Sep 2023
Open
Grunt Factor: 26 ?
Gnarl Factor: 30 ?
12.2km
480m
480m
795m
Last Updated: 21st Sep 2023
Last Updated: 21st Sep 2023
Open
Grunt Factor: 26 ?
Gnarl Factor: 30 ?
12.2km
480m
480m
795m
Back country - remote
Out and Back
Undulating, some big hills
Native bush
Riverside
Easy Single Track
Moderate Single Track
Technical Single Track
Average Uphill Gradient: +8.9%
Average Downhill Gradient: -8.9%
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2:00
Slow
1:30
Moderate
1:00
Fast
The track climbs a couple of hills through a red beech forest and crosses streams in a couple of places with the largest being at the Tree Trunk Gorge end. They are fairly easy to negotiate but there is definitely no way around getting your feet wet unless you get arrange a piggy back. As remote as is it, Mountain Bikers do use this track so do keep an ear out. Overall a really enjoyable run.
There are a couple stream crossings so be prepared to get wet feet and a small section of reasonably technical track but mostly it is a really nice open route.
This track is generally well graded as it mostly follows the line of an old road associated with the Tongariro Power Scheme. It is definitely worth tagging on the extra couple of KMs to make your way to the swing bridge at Pillars of Hercules.
Remote roadside parking so probably best not to leave anything valuable in the car.
24 km
18 minutes
Unknown
No
Easy.
The track is well established and obvious.
Generally good.
Gloves, Beanie/thermal headwear, Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Cellphone, Map
The streams look clear and clean enough to drink from
The large crossing my be difficult after a long period of heavy rain and there will of course be plenty of surface water and mud to make this track even more interesting while raining.
The forest floor is covered in beech tree debris which hides rocks and tree roots. The track is soft under foot in places and offers a few surprises along the way. Nothing too dangerous but be aware of what might be hiding to trip you up.
Fastest Known Times (FKTs)
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This is a great little leg stretch to break the journey south - beautiful wide easy track through huge trees. Its also dog friendly if you arrange a DoC permit through the Turangi office.
February 2, 2019
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