Coppermine Trail: Nelson's Alpine Mountain Bike Loop

Overview

The Coppermine Trail is one of New Zealand's most accessible alpine mountain bike rides, and it starts right in Nelson. It climbs steadily up the old Dun Mountain tramway, considered New Zealand's first railway, to the rocky Coppermine Saddle (878 m). Then comes a thrilling 10 km downhill through rock gardens and bush, and a cruise home through the pretty Maitai Valley.

The full loop is 43 km from Nelson's CBD, or 40 km from the Brook Street trailhead. Allow 4–6 hours. The descent is Grade 4 (advanced), so the full loop suits fit, experienced singletrack riders, but there are easier out-and-back options.

Highlights

• Big views over Tasman Bay and the Kahurangi ranges
• The striking colours of the mineral belt around Coppermine Saddle
• Early industrial history on New Zealand's first railway
• Codgers Mountain Bike Park
• The Maitai Valley's swimming holes and picnic spots, and a side trip to the Maitai Caves

Trail sections

• Third House (660 m) is a basic shelter, with weka sometimes wandering about.
• Windy Point usually lives up to its name.
• The downhill has been smoothed and bermed in places, but expect drop-offs and rocks. Walk anything you're unsure of, and remember it's a dual-use track.

Easier options

• Brook Street → Third House and back (23 km, intermediate, 3–4 hr): A steady climb and a fun descent. Continue to Windy Point or the saddle if you have energy left.
• Maitai Valley Walkway (easy, any distance): Hire a bike at the Nelson i-SITE and ride up the valley.
• Codgers MTB Park: Trails from easy beginner singletrack to expert downhill.

Need to know

• Bike: A well-maintained mountain bike is essential, ideally full suspension. Carry a tool kit. E-bikes are allowed, but you need the skill to handle a heavy bike on obstacles and narrow bridges, and to finish if the battery runs out.
• Weather: Alpine conditions on the tops can change fast. Bring sunscreen for the exposed upper section. Heavy rain or wind can close the trail.
• Food and water: Carry enough for the whole day.
• Mobile coverage: Good near the city, but very poor past Third House. Consider hiring a personal locator beacon.
• Toilets: At Third House and Coppermine Saddle.
• Dogs: Allowed in Codgers MTB Park only. No horses.

Getting there

Nelson has a busy domestic airport and is less than 2 hours from the Picton ferry. Book accommodation ahead for December to March. There are holiday parks in both the Brook and Maitai valleys, right on the trail.