Many thanks for the splendid photos. When I realised this team were riding both trails over last weekend, I asked for some photos for TRM inmates to compare and illustrate the basic differences between the two rides.
Day 1 – Alpine Descent – this is downhill slog from the top of the Kaimanawas down to the Desert Road is a commercial operation costing $350 for the helicopter shuttle.
Day 2 – Follow the Water – linking nine very different trails on the upper Tongariro River – a self-organised descent back to Turangi which TRM has promoted, costing nothing!
It is a BIG decision for some TRM inmates…
Nick writes:
Hi Ross – a quick summary email for your blog as promised. Once again thanks for your help.
A great mountain bike weekend based from Turangi
Day trip one: Alpine descent
Heli-biking with the excellent Kaimanawa Descent operation based off the Desert Road https://www.kaa.co.nz/kaimanawa-descent/. 23km (3 – 4 hours)
Day trip two: Follow the water
A 41km (4 – 5 hours) descent From Tree Truck Gorge, via Pillars of Hercules, Poutu Dam and Tongariro River back to Turangi
