Raemaru Mountain, Cook Islands, Rest of the World - Trail Running Directory

One liner: Short, sharp ridgeline climb with a steep rocky scramble to the summit.

Raemaru track

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Last Updated: 10th Sep 2026

Intermediate

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Grunt Factor: 13 ?

Gnarl Factor: 95 ?

3.5km

Length of run

395m

Total Ascent

395m

Total Descent

Driving Time

Driving Distance

Directions to start

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Trail Map

Type of Run

Front country - easily accessible

Out and Back

Undulating, some big hills

Native bush

Open ridges/tops

Run Makeup

100%

Technical Single Track

Average Uphill Gradient: +22.50%

Average Downhill Gradient: -22.50%

Garmin Course

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Trailhead

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Estimated Times to Run

1:30

Slow

1:00

Moderate

0:40

Fast

GPX File

Topo Map

3D Satellite

Guide

This is a short out-and-back, climbing to the flat top of Raemaru Mountain in Rarotonga, Cook Islands.

The track climbs from the start, following the ridgeline through the bush and fern undergrowth which, depending on the season, can be full of butterflies — literally hundreds of them.

After about 1.3km you'll reach the bottom of the rockface scramble. Fixed ropes and steel steps (via ferrata) are in place to help with the climb. It isn't too tricky, but is approximately 15m high and would be much harder in wet conditions, so only tackle it if you're confident and experienced. Generally, the climb back down is the harder part.

At the top, the mountain is fairly flat, with a few worn trails through the undergrowth. Follow these 'up' to get a good view out the other side, then retrace your steps back down the rockface, along the ridgeline trail and back to the car park.

This trail includes the peak Raemaru Mountain.

Epic views across the island from the summit.

None

Transport and parking:

Grassy clearing at road end.

Dog friendly:

Navigation Rating:

Easy.

Navigation Tips:

There is only one route and well used.

Cellphone Coverage:

Patchy.

Suggested Gear List:

First aid kit, Cellphone, Map

Availability of Water:

None, and it can get hot so take plenty!

Seasonality Issues:

Likely very slippery when wet, both the ridgeline up and the rockface scramble.

Hazards:

Take care on the rockface climb and only climb if confident and experienced.

Use your judgement:

The information provided is a guide only. Conditions, access and hazards can change, so use your own judgement and check current local information before heading out. Make sure the route or location is suitable for your experience, fitness and equipment, and check any access restrictions or permissions that may apply.

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