Edwards Valley is accessed via a locked gate from Tophouse Road/The Rainbow Road. To obtain gate access a form has to be filled out and submitted via the DOC website which details the make, model and registration details of the vehicles entering and the time period of access. Once the form is submitted the combination for the padlock on the gate is supplied. There are very strict access conditions around conduct and where you can ride and these should be adhered too to avoid access being restricted for other users.
During winter the track can be closed due to weather and track conditions, it is best to check with DOC before setting out to ensure the track is open.
The Edwards Valley track varies from rutted but firm dirt track to gravel, river crossings and some very steep ascents and descents all the while taking you through some of the most stunning valleys and hidden plains in New Zealand. For those after a more varied ride this should rank as a must-do.
The last 200 metres of track takes you down a steep descent to finish beside the Waiau River, part of this descent is deep gravel and it is recommended to go down if you are comfortable riding back up through the deep gravel, bearing in mind there is a large dropoff on your right hand side. It is forbidden to ride any further once you reach the Waiau River.
As Edwards Valley is at alpine altitude and very remote riders need to be prepared to be fully self sufficient. There is no cellphone coverage within probably at least 40 kilometres, if not 70, no human habitation and any vehicle recovery or rider evacuation due to injury would require either a serious 4×4 or a helicopter. At alpine altitudes the weather can change from very warm to very cold and windy quickly so suitable clothing for all conditions should be carried.
DOC St James Conservation Area – motor vehicle access information
Contributed by: @eddieb
Track type: Dirt Track
Track composition: Bumpy, Loose, Steep
Slippery when wet?: No
Suitable for bikes <650cc? Intermediate
Suitable for bikes >650cc? Experienced
River crossings? Yes
https://youtu.be/H-ZXZvPPsdU