Kiwi Rider September 2024 Vol.2 | Page 26

LOCATION The route lies in the upper West Coast of the South Island , linking the historic mining township of Denniston to the small farming community of New Creek . At 33km , this is the West Coast ’ s longest off-road adventure route .
GRADING The route has wildly varying terrain ranging from tar-seal around the Denniston township , to a solid Grade 4 crossing of the Mackley River . In between those two extremes are Grade 1 to Grade 3 gravel roads , dirt tracks , steep ascents / descents , loose rocky sections , rock slab steps , and a couple of stream crossings thrown in for
good measure . The included map key shows a breakdown of the route grading .
TIME TO RIDE While the route can be done at a solid pace in under two hours , you won ’ t do the area justice by rushing through . You ’ ll get so much more from the ride by taking your time and absorbing the amazing scenery over the course of half a day or longer .
ROUTE TYPE While most of the Coast ’ s adventure routes are in-out , this one is a connector ride , offering great flexibility when planning a West Coast adventure .
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