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Clarence Reserve - Forbes Hut (Seymour Hut)

Clarence Reserve - Forbes Hut (Seymour Hut) Mountain Bike Trail

Status

OPEN
Intermediate

Difficulty

Intermediate

Distance

27.4m

Elevation

1216m
-911m

Rating

4.1 (1)

Description

The primary access is over Blind Saddle, leaving from the Kahutara River bridge on the Inland Kaikoura road. It's a decent climb up to the top at around 1200m, with great views back to the Inland Road and down to the coast. Looking toward the Clarence River from the top reveals the vastness of this high country. You will see weird rock formations and the remnants of fences and historic huts from farming days as you make your way down to the Seymour Stream. Following the Seymour brings you to the Clarence River and Forbes Hut (previously Seymour Hut).There are many opportunities for adventure beyond Forbes Hut. Up the Clarence, under the imposing Dillion Cone is the Palmer Hut. Turn off 2 km up the Seymour from the Clarence for the track to Palmer Hut. Following the track down the Clarence will take you across Quail flat and eventually Goose Flat Hut, 22 km down river from Forbes Hut.To get out of the valley, it's the same way you came in.

Weather

Details

Condition

Variable

E-bike access

Class 1

Grade

1.1% avg, -74.8% max

Altitude range

187m to 1200m

Region

Kaikoura

Last updated

26 Mar 2026

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View Clarence Reserve - Forbes Hut (Seymour Hut) on the interactive map to see the full trail route and nearby trails.