Biking the Timber Trail

Days 41 and 42 (948 to 1026 kms)

The Timber Trail has been on my bucket list for several years. It is a biking trail through old growth forest, regenerated forest and historic logging activity. It is now home to conservation work and mountain bikers. Of course the trail can also be walked.

After multiple days trying to decide between walking and biking, I ultimately decided on biking. Firstly, this particular trail is known as a mountain biking trail and this is the way the vast majority of people experience this special area. Secondly, although Te Araroa is a walk, it is a walk full of adventure. And where possible, I like to take the more adventurous options. Last year I kayaked the sections when both kayak and walking options were available, I feel the same logic should apply to sections that offer biking and walking. Having said this, I enjoyed the trail so much, I would not be surprised if I also walk it sometime in the future. Walking typically takes 3 or 4 days, while mountain biking takes 2 days.

We arranged with a local outfitter for bike rental. They would also take our pack to the midway point, so we could ride with just a small day pack. They would also take our packs from the midway point to the end of the trail. There is a super fancy, and expensive, lodge at the midway point, a clamping option which also looked very nice and free DOC campground. The campground was a bit of a dump, and was where I stayed. I did pop into the lodge for a drink and pizza, which was a total treat. The end of the trail has a very nice free campground which I had to myself for the night.

I have very little mountain bike experience, but it did not take long before I was bombing down the rutted tracks. Nothing like some self taught technique. The scenery was amazing, including some very impressive swing bridges. I particularly liked all the history of the early logging activities and the tramway constructed to support this industry. This history helps describe how New Zealand developed as a nation. Most of this early infrastructure has been lost to time, but small traces and stories remain. I will be back.

Just to note I crossed the 1,000 km point. I have officially done 1/3 of the trail. Woo hoo.