Last Updated: 29th Apr 2024
Saddle Up
Submitted by Tony Sharpe
Last Updated: 29th Apr 2024
Grunt Factor: 8 ?
Gnarl Factor: 49 ?
3.2km
215m
215m
841m
Last Updated: 29th Apr 2024
Submitted by Tony Sharpe
Last Updated: 29th Apr 2024
Grunt Factor: 8 ?
Gnarl Factor: 49 ?
3.2km
215m
215m
841m
Front country - easily accessible
Out and Back
Undulating, some big hills
Open farmlands
Open tussock/grasslands
Open ridges/tops
Volcanic
Moderate Single Track
Average Uphill Gradient: +13.4%
Average Downhill Gradient: -13.3%
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1:00
Slow
0:45
Moderate
0:30
Fast
The trail is well marked from the carpark. Hop through the old stockyard (literally) and then follow the well defined trail up past a couple of small peaks. The trail then follows fencelines and defined ridges until you spot the trig sitting on the summit. Follow the obvious trails to the top and soak in the amazing views from Akaroa to the Pacific Ocean to Lake Ellesmere and the Southern Alps beyond the plains. Truly a gem of a place to be, and a real wild feel for a shorter trail. Grunty vert too.
This is great to run in combo with the stunning Tumble Down Te Oka, which is back along the road a bit. A highly recommended afternoon of dual trail mahi!
Stunning views of ancient volcanic landscape
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Parking at trailhead, look for the DOC sign for Saddle Hill Reserve
13 km
21 minutes
No
No
Easy.
Well poled but it can often be misty up here being so high, so choose your weather if you want the view
Patchy.
Long-sleeved thermal top, Seam-sealed waterproof jacket, Gloves, Beanie/thermal headwear, Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Cellphone, Map
No water up here, fill up at Little River or home
Very exposed high tops, you probably don't want to do this one in bad weather.
Some steep drop offs near the top
Pop down to Little River for cafes and pub
Trail Legend
Fastest Known Times (FKTs)
You and Saddle Up
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Short but sweet! Cracker views of Banks Peninsula, Akaroa Harbour, Lakes Forsyth and Ellesmere, and of course the sea. Will definitely make a habit of stopping here now and again on our way to our favourite beach (Tumbledown Bay).
February 6, 2022
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