Kauaeranga Kauri Trail

Walking track

Getting there

The Kauaeranga Valley is east of Thames on the Coromandel Peninsula.

Description

Kauaeranga road end - Billygoat circuit

Time: 4 - 5 hr

Track to Pinnacles Hut

From the roadend carpark, cross at the swingbridge, continue alongside the river to Webb Creek, then follow the historic packhorse route to the old hydro campsite (1 hr 30 min - 2 hr). You will climb stone steps cut for the packhorses during the 1920s logging days.

From the Hydro Camp clearing continue on to the Long Trestle/Billygoat junction. Then follow the tramline route past the Short Trestle and Billygoat Falls before emerging at the Kauaeranga River.

Hydro Camp - Pinnacles Hut

Time: 1 hr one way

This track sidles from the Hydro Camp clearing onto an open ridge with spectacular views of the east coast, before dropping down along a signposted side track for about 10 minutes to Pinnacles Hut. Look for the remains of Dancing Camp Dam 5 minutes down the track from the hut. 

Pinnacles Hut - Pinnacles

The Pinnacles

Time: 50 min one way

A steep climb leads to the jagged summit of the Pinnacles, with magnificent panoramic views. Take care at the summit.

Plan and prepare

What to expect on a tramping track:

• Challenging day or multi-day tramping/hiking
• Track is mostly unformed with steep, rough or muddy sections
• Suitable for people with good fitness. Moderate to high level backcountry skills and experience, including navigation and survival skills required
• Track has markers, poles or rock cairns. Expect unbridged stream and river crossings
• Tramping/hiking boots required

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