Mt Altimarloch is a side trip off the North end of Awatere Valley Road at the top of The Molesworth. Taylor Pass from Blenheim can also be used to get there. Heading South on Awatere Valley Road to where the seal stops and the gravel starts, Altimarloch is accessed via the next gate on the right and is signposted with a Private Property sign, ignore the sign and follow the track.
The track condition can vary depending on the season and rainfall but is steep, usually with a layer of loose stone and could have water ruts across or down the track to contend with. In winter it may be impassible due to snow.
Once at the top at an altitude of nearly 1700 metres Mt Altimarloch offers stunning views over the surrounding area and across the Cook Strait to Wellington, though if there is a slight breeze at the bottom of the road it could be a raging gale at the top.
Access to Mt Altimarloch requires vehicle registration with DOC to get a gate access code, you can find the latest DOC information about this area and how to register your vehicle online at: https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/marlborough/places/ferny-gair-conservation-area/.
Contributed by: GPS Track: @woodman, Pics: @underground
Track type: Gravel track
Track composition: Rough, Loose, Steep
Slippery when wet? No
Suitable for bikes <650cc? Intermediate
Suitable for bikes >650cc? Intermediate
River crossings? No
Why does this track have a Private Property sign.Is it in fact a public road?
I think the lower portion of the road crosses over Private land.
No gate access code needed in 11/2023. Gate open.
Still OK to ignore the private property sign?