Mount Olympus: a road impassable without a 4wd, snow chains and nerves of steel
New Zealand, oceania
13.6 km
1,634 m
hard
Year-round
Alright, thrill-seekers, listen up! I've found a doozy of a road right here on New Zealand's South Island. I'm talking about Mount Olympus Access Road, leading up to the Mount Olympus ski area – affectionately known as the "Playground of the Gods."
This ain't your average Sunday drive. We're talking a 13.6 km (8.45 miles) unpaved, shingle track that climbs a whopping 1,052 meters from Harper Road to a summit of 1,643m (5,360ft). That's an average gradient of 7.73%, so hold on to your hats!
You'll find it nestled in the Craigieburn Range, and let me tell you, getting there is half the adventure. The road to the bottom hut? Manageable in a 2WD, maybe with chains. But from there to the ski area car park? It's a whole different ball game. High-clearance 4WD is essential, and chains are your best friend.
The last stretch is single-lane, steep, and a little, shall we say, exhilarating. Trust me, the sign that reads "Chains and courage are required" isn't kidding! But if you're not feeling up to it, no shame in catching a ride from the bottom hut with one of the locals. Just remember to check the snow report beforehand and obey all signs. This road has amazing views and some challenging sections. Happy trails!
Where is it?
Mount Olympus: a road impassable without a 4wd, snow chains and nerves of steel is located in New Zealand (oceania). Coordinates: -38.6493, 175.9427
Road Details
- Country
- New Zealand
- Continent
- oceania
- Length
- 13.6 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,634 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- -38.6493, 175.9427
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