Ross to Hokitika

Can be done in either direction, but description is for heading North from Ross to Hokitika. Northbound, you get a slightly monotonous section out of the way first and finish in Hokitika where there are more food/rehydration options than Ross.

Beginning at the start of the historic tramway just along the road from Ross Beach Holiday Park, simply follow the bright orange West Coast Wilderness Trail signs along the tramway heading North. The first 11km of the route is pretty much a straight line along the tramway towards Ruatapu, across farmlands and creeks, with the distant sounds of the wild Tasman see and occasional views of the Alps. There is a good shelter part way along this section and a number of interesting information boards regarding the rich history of the area.

At 12km, you reach SH6 at Ruatapu, turn right and have to run alongside this (on a separate trail) for about 1km before crossing SH6 and taking the minor tarmac road towards the Treetop Walkway. This does involve a few km of tarmac road, but there is very little traffic and the views of the mountains are quite impressive on a clear day. Be sure NOT to turn left for the Treetop Walkway - just keep following the orange West Coast Wilderness Trail markers.

At 18km you reach the start of the Mananui Tramline (AKA Mahinapua Walkway) and will be glad to return to singletrack trail running. For the next 4km you follow a former logging tramway through native bush. The track is well maintained and makes for easy but not boring running.

At 22km the fabulous wetland section is reached and the trail takes you across boardwalk through this amazing ecosystem. On a clear day, especially in Winter, the views of the snowcapped mountains in the distance are just sublime. The wetland section continues for a couple of km, then you're back into the bush on another lovely ribbon of singletrack which follows Mahinapua Creek for another few km.

The bush section ends at about the 26km mark, crossing a picturesque historic bridge before crossing SH6 and following the quiet minor road behind the Hokitika Golf Links. Your route follows the road for about 3km before crossing the Hokitika Bridge - a pretty stunning final furlong on a clear day. In Hokitika, there are lots of good places to rehydrate and refuel, plus plenty of good accommodation options. Or you could continue running along the West Coast Wilderness Trail all the way to Greymouth (route guides to subsequent sections coming soon).