This is one big 7+ km uphill slog, but it's worth it for the downhill, views, bush, and serenity. Ahhh, the serenity. I'd liken it to a mini Mt Holdsworth, a mix of the Rain Gauge Track and Rocky Lookout. Perfect if you don't have time for a Jumbo-Holdsworth loop but want all the benefits.
You start with a 900m uphill section on the gravel road. Take a sharp left turn (there's a small green signpost) and head straight up the grassy hill towards the pine trees. From here you are in climbing mode for the next 6km. There are some short respites of 'flat' (its all relative) sections or very small downhills, but nothing to get too excited about or to build up a rhythm. For the most part you are running/hands on knees power walking in the native forest, where it is sheltered and incredibly peaceful. The only disturbance is the awesome chorus of birds. Stop and enjoy them if you can. At times you'll pop out into small clearings on the ridges. At the same time the running surface turns rock, and is often twisty and turny. Worth a moment to enjoy the views, and catch your breath. In some of the exposed sections gorse extends onto the trail, so wear long socks or calf guards & gaiters to minimise scratching.
At the 5km mark is a sign "Coal Stream 3 wire bridge has been removed". Turn left. This is the only navigation required. At the 6km mark you hit the middle of middle earth. CHOICE! At 7.2km you reach Mt Reeves. It is not sign posted, but you're obviously at the top and can see the Tararuas, Lake Wairarapa, the southern end of the North Island and plenty more. This is the turnaround point, and where the real fun begins.
The return to home base is great as it is (mostly) all downhill. It will test your technical skills over all sorts of terrain. Be ready for lots of roots that can trip you up, running in or on the edge of the water race, moss, rocks, twists, and turns. This will help you hone a technique of fast small light steps, along with your ability to pick straight lines instead of strictly following the camber of the trail. Once back at the car park you can pop down to the river to cool off.
