Like Edwards Valley, Malings Pass is accessed via a locked gate from Tophouse Road/The Rainbow Road. To obtain gate access a form needs 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.
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.
Malings Pass is mostly a gravel 4×4 track, it can be quite rutted and rocky in places and has quite a few hidden whoops that can catch riders unawares. The first 1/3 and the last 1/3 of the track are relatively flat with stream bed crossings and the hidden whoops but the center 3rd has steep ascents and descents with a sometimes loose rocky surface. The tracks ends on a plain beside the Upper Waiau River.
As Malings Pass 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://youtube.com/watch?v=wvLz3AV_cGg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Lkb_8u1siY