South Wairarapa Tramping Club – The Remutaka Rail Trail

We were amazed at the response for this tramp  from Cross Creek, south of Featherston, along the rail trail to the old Summit Station, our first tramp since the lockdown process started in March  – 18 walkers east to west, plus 2 west to east, 4 cyclists, and 3 dogs!

The weather looked good as we left Greytown, but when we reached Cross Creek we were hit by a chilly wind in our faces as we headed up the valley.

Several people hadn’t walked the Rail Trail before, so were interested to learn about the area’s history, from other walkers and the photo and information boards.

We stopped for morning tea at a large grassy area, huddled against the bushes to avoid the wind. Then onwards to the very impressive new bridge at Siberia, (where a train was blown off the rails in 1880, killing four children,) wide enough for 2 cyclists to pass, high netting sides, and plenty of reassuring stays holding it firm against the wind. Unfortunately one of the dogs showed distinct reluctance to trust the bridge, and had to be retrieved from the gully and led over! 

We emerged from the third tunnel into bright sunshine, but still a strong wind, so lunch was eaten in the station shelter by those in the lead, and sheltered in the lee of the station, or behind trees, for the rest. 

With the wind at our backs we kept up a good pace on the way down. Total time about  5 hours.

New trampers are welcome! Phone or email Ed and Juliet Cooke, 304 9497, efjac@xtra.co.nz, if you are interested in joining the club for an outing, or just want a bit more information.  We usually have a day tramp each Saturday. Some are easy, like this one, and others are a bit more demanding.