Frequently Asked Questions
The Pike29 Memorial Track is a tough ride and not to be underestimated – to enjoy your ride you need to be fit and have good equipment. Plan to start at the Smoke-ho carpark, riding past the Ces Clark Hut and Moonlight Tops hut, then shortly after the 9km of downhill begins! See Bike It itinerary here.
The Pike 29 Memorial Track is a fantastic walk and is best linked up with the start of the Paparoa Track, with a stay at the Moonlight Tops Hut, check out our walking itinerary here.
What sort of weather can I expect?
Weather in the Paparoa National Park is changeable with annual rainfall averaging around 6,000mm (235 inches). Heavy rain can occur with little warning, and unbridged streams are dangerous in flood. Be prepared for rain, heavy fog, snow and high wind, especially on the exposed sections of the track.
– You are not permitted to take a mountain bike into any hut or shelter, or on to hut porches.
– You are not permitted to take a mountain bike off the formed and designated route.
– Electric bikes are not allowed on the track.
– Bikes must give way to walkers.
The Bikers Code can be found on the DOC website on “Quick links” at bottom of this page.
How far is the Pike 29 Memorial Track?
The Pike 29 memorial track itself is just over 11kms, although most people will hike or bike from Smoke- ho carpark, you gain 300m vert this way 😉 this will make the trip from Smoke-ho carpark to Pike River memorial track carpark a total of 36.9kms, no small feat!
What facilities do the huts have?
Huts have bunks, mattresses, heating, gas cooktops, toilets, USB charging and a water supply. A DOC ranger may be present. The huts do not provide food, cooking utensils or showers.
I’m parking at Smoke-ho can I get my car taken to bottom of Pike 29 Memorial Track?
Yes, we offer car relocations between Smoke-ho carpark and the end of the Pike 29 memorial track, see here for details.
How far in advance do I need to book?
The Paparoa Track is very busy during the summer season, we recommend booking huts and other services you need as far in advance as you can.
Refer to DOC’s “What to take on Great Walks” guide.
How do I get back to my car at smoke-ho?
We offer a daily shuttle service from the end of the Pike 29 memorial track back to Smoke-ho carpark, see here for more details.
Buy these on the DOC website here.
Yes. Most of the track above the bushline does have reception! Don’t forget to #thepaparoatrack and @thepaparoatrack all photos!
In Blackball we have a lovely two bedroom house for rent to hikers and bikers on the Paparoa Track and Pike 29 Memorial Tracks. It sleeps 6 people and can be seen here.
What should I book first — hut tickets or before & after services/logistics?
We recommend booking hut tickets first, as there are only 20 beds per hut and they will fill up very quickly. Once you have booked your hut tickets, get your car parking, accommodation, track transport and gear transfers with us.
Is there an information centre/ memorial at the end of the Pike 29 memorial Track?
This is expected to be built during 2024 and opening in 2025.
Can I get my car relocated from Smoke-ho to Pike 29 trail end?
You sure can, we offer this service and you can get more information here.
