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Looking for the best mountain biking trails in Marlborough Sounds?
Marlborough, nestled at the top of New Zealand’s South Island, is a mountain biking paradise with trails that cater to every skill level. From coastal paths to rugged backcountry tracks, here are some of the top biking adventures in the region:
Queen Charlotte Track
Location: Marlborough Sounds
Length: 73 kilometers
Difficulty: Intermediate to advanced
Highlights: Ride along the ridgeline of the Marlborough Sounds, enjoying spectacular coastal views, lush native bush, and diverse terrain. You can tackle the full track over multiple days or ride sections for a shorter experience. Note seasonal biking restrictions on certain sections.
Link Pathway
Location: Picton to Havelock
Length: 42 kilometers
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: A well-graded gravel pathway connecting Picton and Havelock, this trail winds through native forests and offers picturesque views of the Marlborough Sounds. Perfect for both casual riders and families.
Victoria Domain Trails
Location: Picton
Length: Varying trail lengths
Difficulty: Beginner to advanced
Highlights: These trails offer a mix of single-track routes through native bush and stunning viewpoints overlooking Picton and the surrounding sounds. A great choice for riders of all skill levels.
Taylor River Trail
Location: Blenheim
Length: 20 kilometers
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: This family-friendly trail follows the Taylor River, connecting Blenheim’s town center to the Taylor Dam Reserve. The flat, easy ride is ideal for beginners and those seeking a leisurely outing.
Whites Bay Tracks
Location: Near Rarangi
Length: Loops ranging from 5 to 10 kilometers
Difficulty: Intermediate
Highlights: These trails combine forested paths with coastal scenery, offering a diverse riding experience. The challenging climbs and rewarding descents make Whites Bay a popular choice for intermediate riders.
Mount Robertson Loop
Location: Whites Bay
Length: 11 kilometers
Difficulty: Advanced
Highlights: This challenging loop takes riders through mature forests and steep climbs, rewarding them with incredible views of the surrounding landscapes.
Ngakuta Bay to Momorangi Bay
Location: Marlborough Sounds
Length: 3.7 kilometers
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: A gentle ride connecting two picturesque bays. This short trail is ideal for families and less experienced riders looking for a scenic coastal route.
Nydia Track
Location: Nydia Bay to Kaiuma Bay
Length: 27 kilometers
Difficulty: Advanced
Highlights: This remote trail winds through dense native forests and along tranquil bays, offering a peaceful yet challenging adventure for experienced riders.
Maungatapu Track
Location: Between Pelorus Bridge and the Maitai Valley
Length: 35 kilometers
Difficulty: Difficult
Highlights: A rugged backcountry trail with steep climbs and technical descents. This route is ideal for thrill-seekers looking for a physical challenge and dramatic views.
Rainbow Road
Location: Saint Arnaud to Hanmer Springs
Length: 112 kilometers
Difficulty: Advanced
Highlights: This alpine track features high-altitude passes and unsealed roads, offering an epic journey through Marlborough’s remote wilderness. Riders are treated to sweeping mountain views and an unforgettable backcountry experience.
Tips for Mountain Biking in Marlborough
Plan Ahead: Check trail conditions, weather forecasts, and any required permits before setting out.
Stay Prepared: Carry plenty of water, snacks, a repair kit, and appropriate clothing.
Ride Responsibly: Respect the trails, yield to other users, and stick to marked routes.
Marlborough’s mountain bike trails offer a perfect mix of adventure and natural beauty. Whether you’re after a leisurely family ride or an adrenaline-pumping challenge, there’s a trail for you. Get your bike ready and explore Marlborough’s incredible outdoors today!
The best mountain bike trails in Marlborough offer something for everyone, from thrilling challenges to peaceful scenic rides. Grab your gear and explore the trails today!
For more information about accommodation and transport options - visit our Marlborough destination page.
BOOK these incredible experiences to make your trip to Marlborough Sounds unforgettable!
Half Day Wine Tour
An afternoon among the vines! You will be collected and taken on a tour through the Marlborough wine region visiting three-four hand-picked wineries
Whale Watching & History Cruise
Join us for a fascinating Whale Watching and History Cruise! We cruise to the historic Perano Whaling Station through the calm, beautiful and majestic Queen Charlotte Sound to the Tory Channel, seeing a variety of marine wildlife on the way.
All Day Birdwatchers Experience to Blumine and Motuara Islands
Travel through Marlborough's Queen Charlotte Sound to two unique Wildlife Sanctuary Islands, encountering a huge variety of rare, wonderful and interesting species along the way.
What is the longest mountain biking trail in Marlborough Sounds Picton - Queenstown Cycle Route. This trail is estimated to be 1,199.0 km long.
What is the most popular and difficult mountain bike trail in Marlborough Queen Charlotte Track: Camp Bay to Torea Saddle
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