words and photos by Kim Gintrand
Mainly known for its magnificent and diverse landscapes, New Zealand is a true paradise for gravel and mountain bike riders. The country has developed an impressive network of well-maintained backcountry trails, many of which are man-made, that dive deep into remote wilderness areas. These routes aren’t just trails; they’re magical journeys into nature and history, often crossing landscapes that feel untouched by time.
During a recent trip, I set out to ride one of the country’s most iconic backcountry trail, the Old Ghost Road. This 85-kilometer route cuts through the wild and remote Buller Gorge region on the South Island, connecting the historic gold-mining towns of Lyell and Seddonville. The trail goes through dense native forests, follows alpine ridgelines, and crosses 21 suspension bridges over rivers and gorges. Though originally built with mountain biking and hiking in mind, I’ve done the entire route on a gravel bike, and to my surprise, it was entirely doable, with only a handful of short hike-a-bike sections.
I completed the ride over two days, carrying all my gear for a self-supported trip. Fortunately, the Old Ghost Road is equipped with several backcountry huts, each offering shelter, basic facilities, and space to prepare food. This allowed me to pack lighter by skipping the camping gear. The trail itself is in perfect condition thanks to constant maintenance, and it offers a beautiful variety of terrain: smooth singletrack, technical climbs, rocky descents, and long traverses along open ridgelines.
What truly made the ride special were the little moments, the curious fantail birds flying beside me through the forest, the changing light on the mountains, and the sense of riding through an untouched landscape. I recently released a short film documenting the ride, hoping to offer a different perspective on this legendary trail and perhaps inspire other riders to consider it on a gravel setup. Whether you’re on a MTB or drop-bar rig, the Old Ghost Road is a challenging but unforgettable experience that deeply connects riders to the land and its story.
