Wither Hills Farm Park is Blenheim’s mountain biking destination — 1,100 hectares of rolling hill country on the southern edge of town with around 45 trails covering grades from easy to advanced. The park sits just 2 km south of the hospital and is signposted clearly from central Blenheim. Trails range from a flat beginner singletrack along the base of the hills to long ridge traverses with sweeping views over the Wairau Valley and vineyard country below.
Practical Information
| Location | 2 km south of Blenheim Hospital; well signposted from the town centre |
| Access points | End of Redwood Street (behind The Warehouse); Rifle Range Place |
| Total trail distance | Up to 20 km of trails |
| Number of trails | ~45 trails |
| Trail grades | Easy to Advanced (Grade 1–4) |
| Surface | Singletrack and 4WD farm tracks |
| Facilities | Toilets at Rifle Range Place carpark |
| Cost | Free |
| Dogs | On lead (farm park with stock) |
| Best season | Year-round; dry summer conditions best for trail surfaces |
About the Trails
Wither Hills Mountain Bike Park offers something for most riding levels. Beginner and family riders are well catered for by the Rifle Range Trail — a Grade 1–2 track running along the base of the hills on relatively flat ground. More experienced riders can tackle the ridgeline trails that climb steeply before traversing the tops with long views in all directions.
The longest trail in the park is the Mount Vernon Grand Traverse via Mapp Track, covering around 11.6 km — a challenging route over the main ridgeline with panoramic views of Blenheim, the Wairau Plain, and the Marlborough Sounds to the north on clear days. Almost all trails are singletrack, with some sections on wider farm tracks where the terrain demands it.
The Marlborough Mountain Bike Club maintains the trails and produces a trail map available at Rifle Range Place and via their website. Trail conditions vary significantly after wet weather — the park’s clay soils become slippery when wet and some trails close temporarily to protect the surface.
Views from the Ridgelines
Climbing any of Wither Hills’ ridgeline trails delivers one of the best views in the Marlborough region. Blenheim sits below on the flat Wairau Plain, surrounded by the checkerboard of vineyards that make up New Zealand’s largest Sauvignon Blanc wine region. The Richmond Ranges close in from the west and south. Sunrise and late afternoon rides are particularly rewarding for light and atmosphere on the ridgeline.
What Visitors Say
TripAdvisor riders consistently rate the Wither Hills trails highly for variety and accessibility, noting the easy entry point at Redwood Street and the quality of trail maintenance by the local club. The views from the upper trails receive consistent mention as a highlight even for visitors who are not dedicated mountain bikers.
Trailforks riders describe the park as a solid destination for intermediate to advanced mountain bikers, with the singletrack quality holding up well. Several note the farm park setting adds a distinctive feel compared to purpose-built bike parks.
Where to Learn More
Marlborough Mountain Bike Club — Wither Hills — the club maintains the trails and publishes the current trail map, grades, and conditions updates. Best source for knowing what is open after rain.
Trailforks — Wither Hills Mountain Bike Park — detailed trail database with grades, distances, elevation profiles and rider reviews for individual trails in the park.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Wither Hills Mountain Bike Park in Blenheim?
Follow Redwood Street south from the town centre (behind The Warehouse) to its end, or use Rifle Range Place. The park is signposted 2 km south of the hospital.
What grade are the Wither Hills trails?
Grades range from 1 (easy) to 4 (advanced). The Rifle Range Trail at the base is Grade 1–2. Ridge traverses are Grade 3–4.
Are the Wither Hills trails free?
Yes — the park is free to use. The Marlborough Mountain Bike Club accepts voluntary contributions to trail maintenance via their website.
Are dogs allowed at Wither Hills Farm Park?
Dogs must be on a lead — the farm park contains stock (sheep and cattle).
Is Wither Hills suitable for beginners?
Yes — the Rifle Range Trail along the base of the hills is Grade 1–2 and suitable for beginners and families with older children on bikes.
What happens to the trails after rain?
Clay soil trails become slippery when wet and some sections close temporarily. Check the Marlborough Mountain Bike Club website before riding after significant rain.
How many kilometres of trails are at Wither Hills?
Up to 20 km of trails across approximately 45 routes of varying grades.
For more cycling in the area, see the full guide to Cycling Tracks in Blenheim. The nearby Taylor Dam Reserve is at the bottom of the hills — good for a flat ride to finish after a Wither Hills session.
