Each week, we highlight our fave tramping trails in New Zealand for day and multi day hikes across Nelson Tasman (and beyond!)
This one’s for all you peak baggers out there! Loveridge Peak (1586m) in Kahurangi National Park makes an epic day mission, but is one heck of a steep climb!
Distance: 10.6km one-way
Elevation: +1400m
The trailhead is located up Baton Valley Road, a 2 hour drive from Nelson. Cut a couple of kilometres off your trip if you have a 4WD and the water level across the ford is low enough, otherwise there are plenty of grassy spots to park before the river.
The first part of the trail is crusiey 4WD track, but be prepared for some tough tramping once you cross the bridge! The track follows the river, and you’ll find yourself scrambling through scrub along an off-cambre bank.
Loveridge Spur Track splits off from the main trail approximately 6km in, and then the elevation really kicks it up a notch! But as usual, the gritty climb is so worth it for the payoff. 360 degree views of the Twins, Salisbury Open, Cowin Spur and the Richmond Ranges in the distance.
A few return options from here: Either traverse left toward Baton Saddle and drop down to Flanagans Hut, or pass directly below the Twins and descend via Paddy Ridge. Alternatively, keep to the marked track and return the way you came. Your knees will be jelly regardless!
