Pipiwharauroa Trail
Photo by Judi Gallagher

Pipiwharauroa Trail

It is the last day to get your entries in for our Favourite Track Competition. Here's an entry from Judi Gallagher:

This walking/cycling trail starts just past Bridal Veil Falls, about 25 minutes from Raglan.

I love this as a cycle trail.

Most of the trail is along a quiet gravel road, gated at the bottom so that the only vehicles are those working on the farms or wind turbines. The trail diverts away from the steepest sections of the road, passing instead over farm tracks and through a section of bush.

The trail starts out flattish then climbs. Except for one stretch of downhill it climbs and climbs. The final 1.5km is through the grassy paddock and is best walked rather than ridden.

From the carpark, the wind turbines look like they’re only a short distance away. Each time you look up they seem to be just ahead. It’s not until you get to the top and see them up close that you realise how massive these things are. The blades turn with an audible swoosh like the wings of an enormous bird.

Beyond the turbines, the views are amazing, even on a hazy day. On a clear day it’s possible to see the distinctive cone of Taranaki in the far distance.

And then – best of all – you get to ride back downhill.

The trail is around 18km return. Bring your camera, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Nearest toilet stop is Bridal Veil Falls.

Pipiwharauroa Trail

Pipiwharauroa Trail

Pipiwharauroa Trail

Pipiwharauroa Trail

Pipiwharauroa Trail

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Photo Credits: Judi Gallagher