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A great run with views across to the South Island and lower North Island.


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Map Key

13.9

Miles

22.3

KM

74%

Runnable

4,717' 1,438 m

High

1,002' 305 m

Low

4,161' 1,268 m

Up

4,163' 1,269 m

Down

11%

Avg Grade (6°)

57%

Max Grade (30°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Fall Colors · River/Creek · Swimming · Views

Overview

This route provides a real taste of running in the Tararuas. Expect steep and technical trails as well as a fast run coming down from Powell Hut. Take your phone and camera as there are photo opportunities everywhere.

Runner Notes

Be sure to check the weather before making the run. It is very exposed across the ridge line. This route is the home of the Jumbo Holdsworth Trail Race, an annual run that challenges the fit to the very fit.

Description

Parking is located at the Holdsworth Car Park (end of Norfolk Rd approx 19km from Masterton).

The run will start through NZ native forest on well-groomed single trails heading to Atiwhakatu Hut. From there, go up Raingauge Spur Track which is a good run up to Jumbo Hut. Carry on to reach the first high point overlooking the Tararuas. From this point all the way across the tops to Powell Hut, you'll enjoy great 'traditional' trail to run (snow poles mark the way).

Various signposts have been added over the years highlighting a variety trails that run off the ridge line. The ridge line provides extensive 360-degree views. The Holdsworth Trig is the turning point for the run and from there, it is downhill with a moderately technical run to Powell Hut. From Powell Hut, it is a groomed trail all the way back to the Holdsworth car park where you started from.

All in all this is a great loop providing you with some great views of the South Island and lower North Island.

Flora & Fauna

NZ native forest and NZ native alpine vegetation above the snow line. Birds will be seen with the most common being the Kereru.

Contacts

Shared By:

Paul Stevens

Trail Ratings

  5.0 from 4 votes

#1112

Overall
  5.0 from 4 votes
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Recommended Route Rankings

#17

in New Zealand

#1,112

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2 Views Last Month
1,346 Since Jul 31, 2016
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Photos

Mt. Jumbo on a good day. Hard to beat.
Aug 7, 2016 near Masterton, NZ
View above Jumbo Hut.
Jul 11, 2016 near Masterton, NZ
Chilly June snow atop Powell
Jul 11, 2016 near Masterton, NZ
The longest of the wire rope bridges on the Atiwhakatu Trail.
Aug 7, 2016 near Masterton, NZ
View to Mt. Holdsworth Summit.
Aug 6, 2016 near Masterton, NZ
Early pre-season snow near Holdsworth summit.
Aug 7, 2016 near Masterton, NZ

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