Yeoman's Track
Track category
Walking track
Mountain bike - Easy
Time:
3 hr 30 min - 4 hr 30 min
Description
Mountain biking on Yeoman's Track
This is a gentle low level forest walking track following an old route where logs were once hauled to Yeoman's Mill. The mill started in 1926 and ran for 30 years. It handled over 50 million feet of podocarp logs and at the height of its production employed 18 staff. The track gives an interesting insight into forest regeneration since logging ceased in the 1960's.
The restored historic Ellis Hut is at the northern end of the track. It was constructed in 1884 and is the oldest surviving hut in the park. It is also known as Murderer's Hut after it was used as a refuge by accused murderer, Jack Ellis, for nine months in 1904. A round trip can be made along Ellis and Wakarara Roads back to the road end at Makaroro River.
Biking: it is easier to ride the Yeoman's coming from Ellis Hut.
Tracks and routes in the area
Getting there
Wakarara Road is approximately 86 km from Napier. Follow State Highway 50 for 66 km and turn right into Wakarara Road (Sunrise Track signpost). Yeoman's Track can be accessed from the road end. You will need to cross the Makaroro River first. Expect wet feet.
Activities
Mountain biking
Yeoman's Track is an easy grade. Allow at least 45 mins to reach Ellis Hut and 30 minutes to return to the carpark. The 17 km loop takes 2 - 3 hours.
Plan and prepare
Caution: All tracks from this roadend require a crossing of the Makaroro River or a walk up the riverbed. It is dangerous to attempt to cross the river when the water level is higher than normal.
These roads are through private commercial forest and are for foot and mountain bike access only. Take care of logging trucks and forestry workers which frequently use these roads.