Rimu Timber Trail: 3-Day Pureora to Ongarue Ride with Blackfern Lodge

On a three-day loop that threads the Timber Trail between Pureora and Ongarue, the Rimu Timber Trail Package from Blackfern Lodge turns long-distance mountain-biking into a relaxed, logistics-free escape. Based around Blackfern Cottage at 50 Ongarue Village Road, Ongarue, this package bundles shuttles, bag transfers, and two nights’ lodging so you ride the Trail without packing worries.

Your itinerary is straightforward and rider-focused. An evening shuttle from Ongarue Cottage delivers you and your bags to Blackfern Lodge or The Forge for the first night. Day two begins with a shuttle to Pureora for a 10am Timber Trail start, then about 40km of riding back to Blackfern. After a second night, the Sulkie Road shuttle puts you on the third-day 53km stretch to Ongarue, where your vehicle and transferred bags await. The total is roughly 93km of track over varied terrain, and the package schedule keeps logistics invisible so you can focus on the singletrack.

What makes this package stand out is the combination of local knowledge and practical services: scheduled shuttles timed to Trail starts, included bag transfers, and guest-selected ensuite rooms at Blackfern Cottage. Blackfern confirms arrival and departure transfers so multi-day logistics don’t eat into ride time. Add-on options let you tailor the experience: a catered package for $150 per person, two-day MTB hire for $140, two-day e-bike hire for $255 and two-day full-suspension e-bike hire for $320. Ongarue Cottage accommodation before or after the package is available for $100 per person.

On the Trail you ride through mature rimu and native podocarp forest, cross old logging routes and climb ridgelines that open to forested valleys. Expect a mix of compacted forestry roads, carved singletrack and technical pinches across roots and rock. Flora includes towering rimu and mixed beech canopy; birdcalls from native species mark quiet sections. The route’s character is rural and forested rather than alpine—this is North Island backcountry riding with big trees and long sightlines.

This package suits riders who can comfortably cover roughly 40km and 53km days and want a low-stress, gear-light multiday ride. It’s ideal for couples or small groups who value comfortable rooms, timely shuttles and the option to add bike hire or meals. Meet at Blackfern Cottage, 50 Ongarue Village Road in Ongarue for the 6pm shuttle, park your vehicle, unload your bike and let the hosts handle the rest.

Guests must be capable of completing approximately 40km and 53km riding days; the package is not guided coaching but includes local logistical support and optional bike hire. Bookings are handled through the reservation system; bring layered clothing, basic spares and sense for variable weather. With bag transfers and door-to-door shuttles, this package turns the Timber Trail into an achievable three-day ride.