The Hilary Ultra

The Hillary Trail is a spectacular multi-day tramping trip through native forest and along the wild coast of the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park. Beginning and ending not far from metropolitan Auckland, this self-guided 70 km trail is a challenging wilderness adventure designed to introduce families and young people, properly prepared, to the joys of multi-day tramping. This is home to the Hillary Trail Run.

The Trail follows a variety of terrain and scenery – many claim a magical pull of the trail and keep coming back for more. Stunning views throughout the trail, rugged West coast beaches, magnificent native bush including the hundreds of year old native Kauri trees. Past large waterfalls and sand dunes, along cliff tops or through marshlands – there is something for everyone.

The 80km course follows the Hillary Trail from the Arataki Visitors Centre West of Titirangi all the way to Muriwai, via Huia, Whatipu, Karekare, Piha and Bethells. There is no denying, this is a tough challenge – mentally and physically. With 3,700m climb, the current fastest time is 8 hours 23 minutes. Many would think this seems a long time for 80km but, those that have done would agree – this is no ordinary 80km.