West Coast Wilderness Trail

Stretching 120 km from Greymouth to Ross, the West Coast Wilderness Trail is a multi-day cycle journey that weaves through ancient rainforests, past shimmering lakes, and along wild coastline. This Grade 2-3 trail offers a perfect blend of natural grandeur and gold-rush history, with well-groomed gravel paths that suit most fitness levels. You’ll pedal through tunnels of ferns, cross historic swing bridges, and roll into tiny settlements where the pub is still the heart of town. The trail is divided into four sections, each with its own character, making it easy to tackle in day rides or a full 3-4 day adventure.

Highlights & What to See

• Lake Brunner & the Treetop Walkway – Stop at this serene lake for a dip or a coffee at the historic Moana Hotel, then walk among the canopy at the West Coast Treetop Walkway.
• Kaniere Water Race – Follow this historic gold-mining water race, carved by hand in the 1870s, as it winds through lush forest.
• Hokitika Gorge – A short detour leads to the brilliant turquoise waters of the gorge, framed by white granite and native bush.
• Gold-mining relics near Ross – Explore the historic goldfields, including the famous ‘Township of Ross’ and the giant gold dredge.
• Coastal views from the Cobden to Greymouth section – Ride along the Tasman Sea with dramatic cliffs and black sand beaches.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow 3–4 days to ride the full trail comfortably, staying overnight at key points like Moana, Hokitika, and Ross. If you’re short on time, the 30 km section from Greymouth to Lake Brunner makes an excellent day ride (3–4 hours cycling), or the 25 km Hokitika to Ross leg offers a rewarding half-day trip with gold-rush history. Most riders average about 30–40 km per day, leaving plenty of time for breaks and side trips.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Fox Glacier & Franz Josef Glacier – After your ride, head south to walk on or helicopter onto these iconic glaciers, just an hour’s drive from Ross.
• Paparoa National Park & Pancake Rocks – North of Greymouth, the dramatic limestone formations and blowholes at Punakaiki are a must-see.
• Arthur’s Pass National Park – Combine the trail with a scenic drive over Arthur’s Pass, offering alpine walks and kea encounters.
• Shantytown Heritage Park – A living-history gold-rush village near Greymouth, perfect for families and history buffs.

Please check official sources for current details.