EXPLORE THE BEST OF MT WHITE BY BIKE
It surprises our visitors that our shepherds remain committed to traversing the Mt White landscape on horseback rather than reverting to motor vehicles. That’s until they get out into the backcountry and see the terrain they have to negotiate.
It’s also terrain that is perfect for mountain bikers. With riding ranges from grade 1-3, wide open spaces, extraordinary vistas, and a whole new level of remoteness.
There are no fences, crowds or traffic out here. Just the freedom to ride!
MT WHITE STATION IS THE PERFECT ENVIRONMENT TO SLOW DOWN, FOCUS AND BE INSPIRED.
It’s peaceful. Another reason why we prefer horseback to motors and why we believe pedal power is an appropriate way to explore Mt White Station.
Our private farm road trail takes you from the central station deep into the Canterbury High country, an area few have been. You’ll be immersed in birdsong as you travel the 17 km through pockets of black Beech and Manuka forest to reach the terraces surrounding PÅ«kio Stream.
Our new Esk Hut sits in splendid isolation; the ideal place to base yourself as you venture even deeper into the backcountry.
It’s a wonderous thing to be able to indulge in a hot shower, cook in a fully equipped kitchen, and sleep deeply in cloud like beds so far from anywhere…
Be warned, Mt White is challenging to the ego. The sheer scale of the mountainous peaks and wide open valley spaces can make you feel quite insignificant yet inspired at the same time.
From here, you have choices. You can head north up the Lochinvar valley, through vast plains, past the historic site of the old Lochinvar homestead and mounds of Misery (ancient glacial moraines) and continue on towards Bull Creek.
Alternatively, head northeast, crossing the PÅ«kio stream and climbing up onto the terraces at the base of Little Flora, passing Surveyors Knob along the way. The road traverses above the Esk river, with grand views of the Puketeraki range. Our second new hut, "Terrace" is tucked away, overlooking the Ant stream and Esk River.
Options from here are to head out and explore some of our old mustering huts, Anderson's located at the base of the Dampier range or Cattle Creek, by Grant stream.
Mounds of Misery
MOUNT WHITE STATION MOUNTAIN BIKING HIGHLIGHTS
Enjoy over 80+ km of private backcountry farm roads, grade 1-3 cycling.
Explore historic mustering huts, most still used today.
Take in the fantastic grandeur of the backcountry terrain.
Cool off in crystal clear alpine rivers.
Privacy and solitude. You’ll very few other people in the backcountry, offering a genuinely remote experience.
"What a stunning experience mtbiking into the Esk Hut. With all our food and clothing transported from Mt White station to the hut,all we had to do was ride and enjoy the stunning scenery.
The Esk hut is a beautiful escape for a few nights, with super comfy beds and a cozy warm feel to the hut. With plenty on offer for the adventurous type to do while staying there. The track in is a well-formed 4x4 road that suited all 10 of us, with a few choosing to ride ebikes."
