Each week, we highlight our fave tramping trails in New Zealand for day and multi day hikes across Nelson Tasman (and beyond!)
Location of the Week – Gordon’s Pyramid Loop
We know we’ve been talking about Flora Car Park a lot lately, but people keep asking about this less known track!
With everyone heading up Mt Arthur at the moment, the Gordon’s Pyramid Loop is a fantastic alternative if you’re looking to dodge some of the snow that’s sitting at the summit of Mt Arthur, whilst still enjoying an incredible alpine hike.
At 1,489m, Gordon’s Pyramid sits around 300m lower than Mt Arthur, and that difference can mean much less ice and snow underfoot during winter.
The Route
• Distance: 20km
• Elevation Gain: 1,200m
• Time: 6.5–8 hours
Start from Flora Car Park and climb to Mt Arthur Hut before continuing past the hut and dropping into the stunning Horseshoe Basin. It’s blooming epic! From there, descend before tackling the steep climb to Gordon’s Pyramid summit, where you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views across Kahurangi National Park. Head back down into the bush, with an optional 2km return detour to the Grid Iron Shelters, before walking along the river, passing Flora Hut and returning to the car park.
It’s a cracking winter day out, a little quieter than Mt Arthur, and one of our favourite day loops in the Kahurangi.
Before You Go
• The Flora Saddle Road is steep, narrow and unsealed.
• A 4WD is recommended, especially during winter but it is passable with an AWD or sturdy 2WD if there hasn’t been heavy rain.
• This is alpine terrain—check the forecast, start early, carry plenty of water, and be prepared for conditions to change quickly.
