Kill Devil

• Takaka
• Cycle Trails & Mountain Bike Parks

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The Kill Devil Track is considered to be one of the best backcountry rides in New Zealand due to its unique history, spectacular scenery and challenging terrain.

Originally built by gold miners in the 1890’s, the track begins at the Takaka Valley and continues into the Lockett Range, passing a series of restored character huts and gold-mining relics along the way.

The Kill Devil Track traverses a variety of terrain including undulating farmland, pine forest, gravel roads and grassy valleys. 58 switchbacks provide an adrenaline rush for keen riders as they ascend 800m to the crest of the Lockett Range, a journey that takes approximately 1.5-2.5 hours. Rewarding views await at the top, looking out over the Abel Tasman National Park and the Devil Range, before riders can continue along the ridge and enjoy the thrill of a steep and rocky descent at the other side.

It’s totally up to you how you experience the track – return via the Lockett Range after a day of riding, or turn it into an overnight adventure by venturing further into the Kahurangi National Park to stay at the Riordans or Waingaro Forks huts.

How to get there: Turn off the State Highway onto Kotinga Road, then turn right near the end of the road where you’ll find a small car park at the trailhead of the Anatoki Forks Track. The road can be rocky, and is likely to require a 4WD vehicle.