The Queen Charlotte Track is New Zealand's premiere multi-day back-country adventure ride.
Most riders complete it in three days. It's a gentle adventure with luxury accommodation available each night and there are some cafes along the way! But the ride is not to be taken lightly - there are some challenging sections.
The trail goes along the rugged hills beside Queen Charlotte Sound. This is a spectacularly scenic fiord with rugged hills plunging dramatically into the blue waters of the sounds.
The trail is uniquely set up for convenient adventure. You can stay in a tent if you want to but you don't have to carry it. It's easy to arrange daily transport by boat of any gear you want to bring. If you prefer luxury lodges to a tent that is also no problem - the boat will bring your Gucci bag and it'll be waiting for you each evening.
This is not a purpose built mountain bike trail and it's very popular with hikers. Nearly one third of the track is not open to bikers during the peak walking season from 1 December till the end of February and you don't want to miss that part so plan to ride it outside the peak season.
You start the adventure with a boat ride out to Ship Cove and it's a great start. If it's starting to sound complicated, don't despair. It's easy, just go see the friendly folks at the Picton i-site (information centre) and they'll take care of all arrangements, even point you to bike hire if you need it!
Breathtaking scenery, formidable trail, good accommodation, fine wine, beautiful boat ride, history, native bush, wildlife - it doesn't get any better!
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