West Coast Wilderness Trail

Pedal through primeval rainforest, past wild rivers and along the Tasman Sea on the West Coast Wilderness Trail, one of New Zealand's Great Rides. This 132 km cycling journey from Greymouth to Ross (or vice versa) is a four-day adventure through the raw, untamed beauty of the South Island's West Coast. You'll traverse historic gold-mining settlements, cross towering viaducts, and soak in landscapes that have changed little since the days of the Māori and early European settlers. With a mix of purpose-built cycle paths and quiet gravel roads, the trail offers a moderately easy ride suitable for most fitness levels, while still delivering a genuine wilderness experience.

Highlights & What to See

• Kaniere Water Race: Ride alongside this historic water race, hand-dug by gold miners in the 1860s, which channels water through native forest for 38 km.
• Lake Kaniere: A stunning turquoise lake surrounded by dense bush, perfect for a swim or picnic. The trail offers several viewpoints.
• Hokitika Gorge: A short detour leads to this iconic swingbridge over impossibly blue glacial water – a must-photograph spot.
• Historic gold-mining towns: Explore Kumara, Goldsborough, and Ross, where you can pan for gold, visit museums, and see preserved miners' cottages.
• Coastal sections: The trail hugs the Tasman Sea near Greymouth, with dramatic views of the Southern Alps rising behind the beach.
• Viaducts and trestle bridges: Cross impressive wooden viaducts built for the logging and mining railways, including the 19th-century Stafford Viaduct.
• Wildlife: Keep an eye out for white herons (kotuku), weka, and seals along the coast.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most riders complete the trail in 3–4 days, allowing time for side trips and leisurely exploration. A typical itinerary: Day 1: Greymouth to Kumara (38 km, 3–4 hours), Day 2: Kumara to Hokitika (42 km, 4–5 hours), Day 3: Hokitika to Lake Kaniere or Ross (35 km, 3–4 hours), Day 4: Lake Kaniere to Ross (17 km, 2 hours). If you're short on time, the section from Hokitika to Lake Kaniere is a superb half-day ride. The trail is well-signposted, and bike hire and shuttle services are available in Greymouth and Hokitika.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Franz Josef & Fox Glaciers: A 1.5-hour drive south from Hokitika, these glaciers offer heli-hikes and ice walks.
• Punakaiki Pancake Rocks: North of Greymouth, these limestone formations and blowholes are a dramatic coastal stop.
• Arthur's Pass National Park: A scenic drive east from Greymouth leads to alpine tramping and kea spotting.
• Hokitika: The vibrant town on the trail is known for its pounamu (greenstone) galleries, craft breweries, and the Hokitika Gorge.
• Ross: The southern terminus of the trail, where you can try gold panning and visit the Ross Historic Cemetery.

Please check official sources for current details.