Clarence Reserve - Forbes Hut (Seymour Hut) Mountain Bike Trail
Status
OPEN
Difficulty
Intermediate
Distance
27.4m
Elevation
1216m
-911m
Rating
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
KaikouraLast updated
26 Mar 2026
Links
No links, yet!
Frequently asked questions
Explore this trail
View Clarence Reserve - Forbes Hut (Seymour Hut) on the interactive map to see the full trail route and nearby trails.