Day 16-Maruia Saddle Ride 42 kms
We woke to a gorgeous day with no clouds and clear skies and as the day unfolded it was one of the best days weather wise we have had.
At the start of the ride!
Getting ready at the start of the ride
Chris’s sign at the top of the climb
All the Aussies at the top of the climb
Interesting view of the trail crossing a river with a lovely bridge
A view of the trail
An interesting gorge along the valley
After breakfast we packed the bikes on the trailer and were on our way to the start of the ride along the main road to Murchison.
W had to drop Chris off along the way as he had meetings in at Spring Junction and we proceeded further down the road to the drop off point.
The ride today was along a 4WD track which had a climb of about 200 metres to the top of the saddle.
Today and probably for the rest of the ride I will be using Chris’s spare bike with wider tyres which are better suited to trail and 4WD track riding.
It seemed to work for me and after a short while of getting used to the gears and the bike pedals and cleats!
I gradually gained more confidence as the ride progressed and the weather certainly helped my demeanour.
The ride after the initial climb was through a picturesque valley with some short climbing on the ups and downs of the hills.
The last part of the ride into Murchison was on sealed road which made for really good riding
We arrived at Murchison at about 1.30 pm and after strapping our bikes in the trailer we had lunch at the Rivers Cafe. For me it was mince on toast with a coffee followed by a strawberry milkshake.
On the ride today we saw many TA riders making their way south to Reefton as their next stop. We also saw a husband and wife riding north on the TA where they are riding from Bluff to Nelson. Interesting to chat to them at the top of the saddle!
After lunch it was back in the van and on the road again back to the Bach to meet Chris who rode back after his meeting.
After having a welcome shower it was perfect to sit down and reflect on the day with a cup of tea and chocolate chip biscuit. These were home made by Chris as were the cheese puffs we had for breakfast this morning!
It was a great day and most enjoyable for us all.
At the start of the ride!
Getting ready at the start of the ride
Chris’s sign at the top of the climb
All the Aussies at the top of the climb
Interesting view of the trail crossing a river with a lovely bridge
A view of the trail
An interesting gorge along the valley