virgin boulder fields . These can be slow going , and physically demanding . On the other hand , if several 4WD vehicles have already passed through , you ’ ll be able to follow their wellstamped tracks , which makes progress up the valley much quicker . Generally , the terrain will be a mixture of Grade 2 , Grade 3 , and Grade 4 . However , some of the more challenging crossings can rank as a solid Grade 5 – especially if river levels are above normal .
RIDING TIME Ride times can vary greatly from rider to rider . Skilled riders can typically reach the
AdventureToken placed at the end of the track in under two hours , while others may take twice as long . Rider skill , track conditions , and river levels , will influence travel time up the valley .
ACCESS There is no cost or access permission required to ride this route . It ’ s public access under Department of Conservation management , and open year-round . However , like all High Country valleys , this route requires careful planning . This track is often inaccessible in late spring and early summer when snow melt is in full swing . During this time , snowmelt dramatically raises the river levels and colours the river making it nearly impossible to see the bottom . Over the years , High Country rivers have claimed many vehicles from those attempting to cross , when they shouldn ’ t ( at the end of the gravel road , just at the gate marking the track start , there was a drowned 4WD abandoned there for some time - Ed ). The best time to ride this track is late summer , autumn or winter . At these times the river is lower , and much clearer . Checking the weather forecast before heading in is also important for a successful trip . When weather fronts push through , High Country weather can switch from tranquil , to dangerously inhospitable in an alarmingly short time . Planning is key for any High Country adventure ( on a trip last year
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