The long-term vision for the iconic St James Cycle Trail is set to become a reality, with significant new trail developments confirmed through funding support from the Department of Conservation (DOC) and the Ngā Haerenga New Zealand Cycle Trails/MBIE contestable fund.

Opened in 2010 as the very first of New Zealand’s 23 Ngā Haerenga Great Rides, the St James Cycle Trail has become one of the country’s premier backcountry mountain biking adventures. The 60km trail traverses dramatic mountain passes and remote high-country river valleys, delivering riders a unique and authentic alpine experience.

While 37 kilometres of the original trail were purpose-built for mountain biking, the remaining sections utilised existing 4WD station tracks inherited from the former high-country station. From the outset, the vision for the trail was to progressively move riders off the steeper and more challenging 4WD sections and onto purpose-built single track better suited to the riding experience.

Following years of route scoping and planning, that vision is now moving forward.

The St James Trails Trust, acknowledged managers of the trail, have worked closely with DOC project staff over several years, spending extensive time in the backcountry mapping and refining new routes designed to create a world-class Grade 3 mountain biking experience.

Three major new trail sections are now planned:

• Maling Pass Descent – A flowing Grade 3 downhill trail descending the western slopes of Maling Pass to the Waiau Uwha River, connecting seamlessly with the existing single track at the current 4WD road end.
• ‘Ball Bearing Hill’ Bypass – A new Grade 3 climbing trail at kilometre 38 that bypasses the steep and challenging “Ball Bearing Hill”, linking the lower and upper river terraces downstream of the spectacular new McArthur Bridge, opened in August 2025.
• Charlies Saddle Single Track – A purpose-built Grade 3 trail climbing from the Waiau Uwha Valley over Charlies Saddle before descending into the Edwards Valley at Scotties Camp.

Once completed, only approximately 10 kilometres of the trail will remain on existing shared 4WD tracks.

In addition to the trail upgrades, the St James Trails Trust is also investing in improved accommodation infrastructure for riders and walkers.

With support from a family bequest, the Trust will construct two new eight-bunk accommodation units at the current Pool Hut site. The existing heritage hut will be upgraded and repurposed as a communal gathering space. The redeveloped area will become known as Poolies Camp, named in honour of Brian Pool, a respected local identity with a deep connection to the St James area.

The combined projects represent a major investment in the future of one of New Zealand’s most iconic mountain bike journeys, ensuring the St James Cycle Trail continues to offer an exceptional backcountry experience for generations to come.