This trail is widely rated as the best single track in New Zealand - with its wide, benched surface, spectacular views, native bush and, in parts, technical difficulty, the track offers bikers an exhilarating challenge. And, of course, you don't have to carry a heavy pack as while you ride from place to place, one of the many water taxi companies will transport this for you to your accommodation.
The 71 km walking track has been purposely built to cater to both walkers and bikers. It is the longest piece of continuous single track in the country and is suitable for novice riders while being challenging enough for the experienced mountain biker.
Two days are needed by most riders of reasonable fitness to complete the entire track comfortably. Those with time restrictions or longer to spend can choose to do particular sections or spread the ride over a leisurely three to four days.
In winter the entire track is open for biking.
This package is availabile from 1 March through to 30 November.
| Track Section | Distance | Approximate Times |
| Ship Cove to Camp Bay | 26.5 kms | approx. 5 hours |
| Camp Bay to Torea Saddle | 20.5 kms | approx. 4 hours |
| Torea Saddle to Anakiwa | 20 kms | approx. 4 hours |
Day 1 – Ship Cove Punga Cove, Endeavour Inlet (approx. 4-5 hours/26km)
We collect you from your accommodation in Picton to join Beachcomber Cruises service to Ship Cove where your walk begins. This scenic & historic reserve was a favourite anchorage for Captain Cook during his explorations in the 1770s. Experience virgin beech forest at its best plus stunning views of the Queen Charlotte Sound. Take time to explore the waterfall walk and the Captain Cook memorial and then set off on the track. From Furneaux Lodge, the track is mainly coastal which takes you around the inlet through regenerating native bush to the call of bellbirds, fantails and other NZ native birds. Pause at the head of the bay to learn more about antimony & the mining industry that thrived there in the 1880s. Follow the main track onwards and into Big Bay before working your way towards Camp Bay and Punga Cove.
Day 2 – Mountain Bike from Punga Cove to Torea Saddle/The Portage (Approx. 4-5 hours/22.5km)
NB. Optional boat trip to Portage for non-walkers – book at the Punga Cove office (at own cost). A challenging
Day 3 – Torea Saddle/The Portage to Anakiwa (approx.4 hours/20.5km)
Farewell Portage and ascend to the ridgeline once again, enjoying stunning views. Open farmland and a grand native bush section to finish is a fitting finale. Today you return by boat from the Outward Bound Wharf and join Beachcomber Cruises service back to Picton to compete your journey. The boat departs sharp at 3.30pm.
Standard 3 Day Independent Bike Package
$649NZ per person
- Departures dates between 1 March though to 30 November, subject to accommodation availability - min. two persons
- 2 Nights standard twin share private ensuite accommodation ( A-frame at Punga Cove and Courtyard at Portage Hotel)
- 3 Day bike hire
- Water transport to and from track
- Luggage transfers
- Packed lunch each day
- Single supplement available $195NZpp
- Picton accommodation transfers to and from water taxi
- Information pack incl. track guide
