Fringed Hill Track: Challenge Yourself on Nelson’s Adventurous Trails

The Fringed Hill Track challenges you to explore one of Nelson's most adventurous trails. Stretching 7.2 kilometers from the Tantragee car park, you'll face an elevation gain of 793 meters. This track is perfect for both walkers and mountain bikers, offering stunning views of Tasman Bay and encounters with wildlife along the way. As you ascend, well-marked paths lead you to the summit, where you can rest at wooden benches beside transmission masts. With diverse terrain and downhill trails ranging from intermediate to advanced, you're in for a memorable adventure. Stick around; there's even more to discover!

Major Highlights

  • The Fringed Hill Track spans 7.2 kilometers with a challenging elevation gain of 793 meters, perfect for avid walkers and mountain bikers.
  • The track features an average gradient of 11%, providing a strenuous workout and testing endurance levels.
  • Enjoy stunning views of Tasman Bay while encountering diverse wildlife throughout your journey on the track.
  • The summit includes transmission masts and wooden benches, offering a rewarding rest stop after the ascent.
  • Various downhill trails, such as Te Ara Koa and FDH, cater to intermediate and advanced riders looking for an adrenaline rush.

Overview of Fringed Hill Track

The Fringed Hill Track is an exhilarating adventure that challenges both walkers and mountain bikers. Stretching 7.2 kilometers from the Tantragee car park to the summit, this track boasts an impressive elevation of 793 meters.

You'll find it physically demanding, with an average gradient of 11%, but the fitness benefits you'll gain are worth the effort. As you tackle the grueling climb, you'll not only boost your stamina but also strengthen your muscles, making it a fantastic workout.

Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife encounters. The native bush and young pine trees are home to various species, and you might spot some of the local fauna during your trek. The trail is adequately marked, although it can be rocky and rooty in sections, so stay alert.

Once you reach the summit, you'll be rewarded with stunning views across Tasman Bay. Whether you're walking or biking, you'll discover that the Fringed Hill Track offers a perfect blend of challenge and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for those looking to push their limits in a breathtaking environment.

Route to the Summit

Starting your adventure on the Fringed Hill Track requires navigating the well-marked route that leads you to the summit. You can access the track from either Brook Valley or Maitai Valley, with convenient car parks at the start of Tantragee Road in Brook Valley, and two more near Maitai Motor Camp.

Begin by following Tantragee Road from whichever access point you choose, continuing until you reach Tantragee Saddle.

At the saddle, turn onto Fringed Hill Road, where you'll see route markers guiding your way. This road climbs around Groom Creek gully, gradually leading you up the northern side of Fringed Hill.

As you ascend, the average gradient of 11% provides a steady challenge, surrounded by young pine trees that frame stunning views of Tasman Bay.

Keep an eye out for the fork in the road; take the left turn to access the summit. Following the signposts, you'll soon reach the top, where transmission masts and wooden benches await.

Behind the summit buildings, a beech forest invites you to explore even further. Enjoy your rewarding view at the summit!

Downhill Trails and Features

Downhill trails on Fringed Hill offer an exhilarating experience for riders ready to tackle diverse terrains. You'll find a range of trail difficulty, from the intermediate Te Ara Koa to the advanced Devil's Tail.

Te Ara Koa, a Grade 4 ride, features rooty and off-camber sections, sharp rollovers, and steep narrow paths. It's best enjoyed in dry conditions and will test your skills with its technical features like the 1-meter drop over a horizontal tree.

If you're up for more, take on FDH, a black diamond trail favored for downhill races. While it's not excessively technical, it still offers challenges that will keep you on your toes.

For the most daring, Devil's Tail presents a Grade 6 downhill run, requiring advanced skills to navigate its steep and rocky terrain.

You can also explore Black Diamond Ridge, which features a technical loop with undulations and challenging root sections.

Each trail connects to others within the expansive Gorge network, allowing you to customize your ride and extend your adventure.

Whether you're racing against the clock or enjoying the descent, Fringed Hill's downhill trails promise excitement and challenge.

Terrain and Weather Conditions

Fringed Hill's diverse terrain presents an exciting mix of challenges for riders, from its steady gradients to its varying track types. With an average gradient of 11%, you'll face consistent gradient challenges that test your endurance as you climb to an elevation of 793 meters. The trails range from public forestry roads to moderate single tracks, ensuring a dynamic riding experience.

However, weather impacts can significantly affect your journey. It's best to ride in dry conditions, especially on trails like Te Ara Koa, as wet weather can lead to muddy sections, particularly among the young pine trees. Loose trail sections often emerge after rain, adding to the technical difficulty.

Be mindful of seasonal considerations, as high fire risks or logging activities can restrict access to certain areas. The upper slopes feature rooty and off-camber sections that require careful navigation, particularly when conditions are less than ideal.

Facilities and Amenities Available

Explore the range of facilities and amenities available for your adventure on the Fringed Hill track. Whether you're driving in or biking along, you'll find various parking options to suit your needs. Start your journey with the convenience of car parks at key locations, ensuring a smooth start to your exploration.

Facility Location
Parking Tantragee Road, Codgers Track, Maitai Valley
Restroom Facilities Codgers Recreation Hub, Tantragee Road
Bike Wash Facilities Codgers Recreation Hub
Trail Access Brook Valley, Maitai Valley

While restroom facilities are primarily located at the Codgers Recreation Hub, you'll appreciate the bike wash options available there too. Take a break, refresh, and get ready to tackle the trails. Keep in mind that specific trails may require permits, which are included with your NMTBC membership or available through a recreation pass. With ample parking and essential amenities, you're set for a thrilling day on the Fringed Hill track!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Dogs Allowed on the Fringed Hill Track?

You should check local regulations for dog access on trails. If dogs are allowed, practicing good dog etiquette and trail safety is essential. Keep your dog leashed, clean up after them, and respect other users.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit?

You'll find the best time to visit is during summer months for optimal seasonal weather. However, consider avoiding peak visiting times in late December to late January for a more peaceful experience on the trails.

Is There Cell Phone Reception on the Track?

You might wonder about cell coverage on the track. While signal strength is generally good, expect some fluctuations in dense areas. It's wise to stay prepared, as coverage can be unreliable in certain sections.

Can I Bike up the Trail to the Summit?

Yes, you can bike up the trail to the summit. For safety, wear a helmet, stay aware of other users, and consider biking tips like pacing yourself on the steady climb to ensure an enjoyable ride.

Are There Guided Tours Available for This Trail?

There aren't any specific guided tour options available for this trail through local tour companies. However, you can explore nearby areas with guided hikes and find self-guided resources to navigate the track easily.

Conclusion

In the end, tackling the Fringed Hill Track is like embarking on a thrilling adventure that elevates your spirit and challenges your limits. As you navigate its winding paths and conquer the summit, you'll find not just breathtaking views, but also a sense of accomplishment that lingers long after you've descended. So lace up your boots, embrace the journey, and let the trails of Nelson lead you to new heights of exploration and exhilaration.