RAINBOW Trail

ST ARNAUD to HANMER SPRINGS, 2-3 days, 112km

Best for: Head in the clouds; nothing on your mind.

Take on the original stock route between Marlborough and Canterbury by travelling from St Arnaud to Hanmer Springs. Remote and relatively challenging, the higher you climb, the greater the isolation.

The trail starts by winding its way to the Old Rainbow Homestead. There are also two working farms to pass through: Rainbow Station, which is privately owned, and Molesworth Station, managed by the Department of Conservation.

Once in the high-country, it’s just you and the natural habitat for company. Cycle past streams, gorges and breathtaking views spanning several high-country lakes. On the last day you’ll arrive in Hanmer Springs, where you can call it a day, or if you’re keen, forge on. Embark on the St James Great Ride or head back to Blenheim via the Molesworth Muster.

Riding the Rainbow Trail

Ruby W

TOP TIP – From Hanmer Springs, get to both Kaikōura and Christchurch by detouring (by around 35km) onto the Hurunui Trail Heartland Ride. Alternatively, the 66km Golden Downs Heartland Ride heads south from Nelson Lakes National Park to Wakefield.

TRAIL INFO

TRAIL GRADES: ALL GRADE 3 (INTERMEDIATE)

ST ARNAUD TO COLDWATER CREEK, 68KM

COLDWATER CREEK TO HANMER SPRINGS, 51KM

MOBILE PHONE COVERAGE: No mobile coverage on this trail.

DRINKING WATER: There is no treated drinking water along the route. Some huts may have water supplies, although this is not assured in spells of dry weather. There are many clear streams along the way.

TYPE OF BIKE: A ship-shape gravel touring or mountain bike is essential for the remoteness and terrain; e-bikes are permitted – there are no charging stations.

IMPORTANT: Access to Rainbow Road is seasonal and can be closed due to heavy rain or fire risk. The best time to ride is when it’s open to public access (from Boxing Day to Easter Monday). There is a road toll (currently $5 for bikes) payable at the Old Rainbow Homestead. For up-to-date road information, check www.rainbowstation.co.nz/ rainbow-access

Riding the trail

ST ARNAUD TO COLDWATER CREEK, 68KM

At the turn-off from the main road, the Rainbow experience really begins. The route takes you up a bush-clad valley to the Rainbow Homestead, where the vista changes as the trail fords a number of streams and crosses a bridge over the Wairau River before entering ‘Hell’s Gate’, a scenic narrow gorge. You’ll find Coldwater Creek campsite just above the gorge and the boundary between Rainbow and Molesworth stations is just a little further on from there.

COLDWATER CREEK TO HANMER SPRINGS, 51KM

The turn-off to the Sedgemere Sleepout is located just after the trail recrosses the Wairau River – it’s a few hundred metres down a side road off the trail. A short detour past the sleepout car park will provide you with a spectacular view over several high country lakes.

The track climbs gently into true alpine country to reach the rustic musterers’ shelter, Island Gully Hut. From there it’s another 6km or so in granny-gear to reach the highest point on this route – Island Saddle (1372m) – also the boundary between Marlborough and Canterbury.

Not far from Island Saddle, a further detour (3km) will take you to Lake Tennyson, a scenic lake formed by a glacial moraine dam – an ideal spot for a picnic.

This scenic high-country glacial lake sits in a beautiful, isolated spot at the headwaters of the Clarence River on the eastern fringe of the Nelson Lakes National Park. You can go camping and fishing here.

Approaching Hanmer Springs there is a three-way intersection before Jacks Pass on the northern side. If you’re keen for more cycling, continue left here on to the Molesworth Muster Trail through to Blenheim. You might want to stop in Hanmer to restock supplies first, though.

Heading right down Clarence Valley Rd, you’ll enjoy a long downhill into the Hanmer Springs township and a soak in the famous hot thermal springs.

NOTE – ACCESS & CAUTIONS

Access to Rainbow Rd is seasonal and can be closed due to heavy rain or fire risk. The best time to ride is when it’s open to public access (from Boxing Day to Easter Monday). While access can be obtained outside of the open period, cyclists are advised against riding this trail during winter or after heavy rainfall.

Cycle this route at your own risk – safety is your responsibility. Plan your ride in advance, go well equipped and please respect the rights of the landowner.

Access through this land is a privilege, not a right, so please keep to the trail and do not venture on to farmland. Leave gates as you find them and respect stock and property. Be prepared to encounter both livestock and vehicles at any point along the trail.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE TRAIL

• Ascend into true alpine country. The highest point is Island Saddle, a lofty 1372m.

• St Arnaud is the main gateway to Nelson Lakes National Park where there are two stunning alpine lakes: Rotoiti and Rotoroa. Discover lakeside walking tracks and longer hikes.

• In winter, the Rainbow Ski Area hosts powder hounds and alpine climbers.

Snowboarding at Rainbow Ski Area © Rainbow Ski

• Lake Tennyson is a scenic high-country lake found on the eastern fringe of Nelson Lakes National Park. Isolated and insanely beautiful, it’s ideal for picnics, camping and fishing.