Third House to Coppermine Saddle

Trail Grades and Safety

Our trails have been graded according to the trail grade standards set out by NZ Cycle Trails. You can read them here.

We recommend riders are fit and well prepared and we encourage you to know your limits and choose a trail that's suitable for all the riders in your group. Also be aware that there are areas on the trails where there is no cellphone reception. You may want to carry a Personal Locator Beacon in these areas. Check network coverage here.

We recommend you check the weather before starting the trail. Check it here.

Ride Length: 6.3 km
Riding Time: 30-60 minutes
Grade: 3: Intermediate
Status: Complete

From Third House, the trail continues through native beech forest as the gradient eases to Junction Saddle. Don't get too comfortable as there is still a solid 5 km of climbing to the top. Eventually the trail leaves the forest in favour of the stunted scrub cover of Nelson’s Mineral Belt. As the vegetation diminishes, the views open up to Tasman Bay and the Richmond Ranges. At Windy Point, the trail continues to traverse Wooded Peak for a couple of kilometres before reaching the trail’s highpoint, Coppermine Saddle (878m above sea level). Panoramic views and the rugged beauty of this environment make it a great spot to stop for lunch.