Heathcote Meander

This is a flat cruisy run right in town that is almost all off-road on paths beside the Heathcote River.

This loop can be done starting at any point but is described starting from Richardson Terrace. Cross the footbridge opposite Mackenzie Ave and head straight down Sheldon Street, right to the end where you will see a track along the river on your right. From here follow the river downstream, through a small park then right at a T-junction by the main river. Keep following the right bank wherever possible.

The track narrows through some scrub and ducks under a bridge before coming out into Ferrymead Reserve. It broadens out here and you leave the houses behind. The narrow river track joins the main track in the reserve - follow along to the end past the golf course. Immediately after crossing the train tracks head left back towards the river. This takes you through Ferrymead Heritage Park and along to the old tramlines and station. Follow your nose though here to join the road (Bridlepath Road) briefly - head left towards the river again, cross the mouth and immediately head down towards the river, now on the left bank heading upstream.

Just before 8km take the footbridge back across into the park - you are now back at the T-junction. Head right on the track you haven't taken yet along the main river through some nice shady trees until you meet the road (Radley St). Cross this onto Clarendon Terrace and continue following the river back to the footbridge where you started.