- Ride Length
- 13 km
- Riding Time
- 1-1.5 hours
- Grade
- 3: Intermediate
- Status
- Complete
The final section of the Coppermine Trail parallels Nelson’s water pipeline on a cruisy, bush-lined trail on a bench above the river. After around 4 km, at Smiths Ford, the trail joins the quiet Maitai Valley Rd.
Tired riders can simply follow the road back to Nelson, while those with gas left in the tank can head up to Tantragee Saddle* via Groom Creek Road. From Tantragee Saddle you can follow the Coppermine Trail back down to Brook Street or choose from a number of purpose-built tracks in the Codgers MTB Park.
To access Groom Creek Road, turn off the Maitai Valley Rd at the Maitai Esplanade Reserve, just after the Maitai Valley Motor Camp.
*This is private land owned by Ngāti Koata and a free recreation access permit can be downloaded HERE.
