Ohakune Old Coach Road Trail
Distance: 15km (One-way)
|
Start: There are several points the trail can be started from, the official being the Ohakune Train Station, or you can skip the first 3km which is on the road and start at Marshall Road Carpark. It’s very popular to ride the trail from Horopito to Ohakune, as its predominantly downhill riding. (This would be our recommendation)
Horopito to Ohakune: Currently this is the only mountain bike trail allowed in the Tongariro National Park. This 15km trail follows the historic Old Coach Road between what were the railheads of the main trunk railway line before the line was finally completed in 1909. This track forms stage one of the Mountains to Sea Cycleway. A great family friendly ride, offers the rider a variety of terrain from open farmland, well constructed track to the original cobbles from the Horse and cart days. The trail offers you spectacular scenery, with a view of Mt Ruapehu at the start of the ride, to the lush native bush sections, followed by the impressive structure of the original Hapuawhenua Viaduct, 284 metres long, and 45 metres above the stream below. The world famous A J Hackett ran New Zealand's first bungy jump off the old Hapuawhenua Viaduct in 1987. If you’re in the right place at the right time you, might see the new Northern Explorer or a freight trainer cross the new Hapuawhenua Viaduct. From the Hapuawhenua Viaduct back to Marshall Road, be sure to checkout the tunnel, it’s a real highlight. This section of the track sees a lot of walkers heading out to the viaduct, so do be mindful on the corners. Checkout the new Te Tepe pump track in the Junction on the cycle back along Old Station Road. |
Ohakune Old Coach Road Trail Map |
|
