Last Updated: 30th Dec 2023
Croesus Crossing
Submitted by Ben Aynsley
Last Updated: 30th Dec 2023
Open
Grunt Factor: 55 ?
Gnarl Factor: 55 ?
28.0km
1500m
1200m
1200m
Last Updated: 30th Dec 2023
Submitted by Ben Aynsley
Last Updated: 30th Dec 2023
Open
Grunt Factor: 55 ?
Gnarl Factor: 55 ?
28.0km
1500m
1200m
1200m
Back country - remote
Point to Point (one way)
Mountainous
Native bush
Open ridges/tops
Sealed Road
Gravel Road
Easy Single Track
Moderate Single Track
Technical Single Track
Average Uphill Gradient: +15.9%
Average Downhill Gradient: -12.1%
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5:00
Slow
3:45
Moderate
2:40
Fast
The best way to run the Creosus Crossing is from Barrytown to Blackball. The track enters the bush just above sea level right next to the road and the first 3km is a steady gradient to approx 400m. From there it's steep up to the bushline and beyond where you cross through the saddle next to Mt Ryall at 1100m and 8km into the run.
The next 5km is undulating across the tops on the most technical part of the trail till you reach the turn off to Creosus Knob. The side trip up the knob adds 30minutes but on a fine day takes in brilliant views of the coastline and the Mt Watson ridge trail. The track from the junction has been upgraded and its only 2 km from here to the Hut. From the hut its 10km of mainly downhill to the end of the single track where you pop out at the carpark. The traditional race route which this guide follows takes you in to Blackball along the gravel road - approximately 6km of mainly downhill. This will keep your support crew happy as the road up to the carpark is rough and this way they can be sitting in the pub waiting for you to turn up! Easy.
Historic pack track - Stamping Batteries, siites of old mining townships
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Best parking is down Cargills road on your left , 100m from track start
47 km
41 minutes
Unknown
No
Moderate.
In thick fog be careful over the tops - stick to the tail and look out for markers
Patchy.
Long-sleeved thermal top, Seam-sealed waterproof jacket, Gloves, Beanie/thermal headwear, Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Survival bag, Cellphone, Map
Plenty on the Blackball side and water at the hut to top up.
Exposed tops - can be very windy and cold in winter
Blackball Hilton
Blackball
Great Food - Historic building
Fastest Known Times (FKTs)
You and Croesus Crossing
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I love the trail from Barrytown to Ces Clark hut (12km), steep uphill through beautiful quiet forest where you enjoy sea view as well. Even it is hot day, you are in nice cool shadow all the time. From Paparoa track part the trail is easy and mainly downhill, very relax. Maybe too ? The trail ending the car park, and after that it is a bit boring road 5km before Blackball. Like it a lot! Amazing views up there!
April 4, 2022
SH
Loved this trail. Lovely runnable sections on the way up until you get to the steep bits but stunning South Island trail. Open and exposed over the top out of the tree lines. Then a gorgeous runnable downhill all the way to the bottom. Tons of wildlife to see. Love those mountains.
June 12, 2019
Most of the climb from Barrytown is fairly steep and rooty, so mostly walking after the first 2km until you reach the tops. From there, the spectacular views open up and it's not long until you're running downhill on a good quality track with a knee-friendly gradient. Recommend a wee side trip to Croesus Knob.
February 24, 2019
These overlap with this trail to some degree. You may wish to combine them but please note that to qualify for FKTs on these runs you should record a separate activity for each.
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