Mountain Biking: A ride on the dark side

On our first Summer Times ride of 2009/10, we'll meander through some pleasant rural country east of Balclutha before going underground to examine the handiwork of Victorian-era workmen.

Then we'll strike out for lonely Cannibal Bay to see some wildlife and rugged coastal scenery before heading north to Nugget Point, which is famous for its views.

Pack a torch or bike light for the tunnel trip.

Leave from outside the Kaka Point Store and head east towards Nugget Point.

About 1.5km down the road turn right on to sealed Karoro Creek Rd, which winds gently up a valley.

When you reach the Aruriri Flat Rd junction 7km from Kaka Point, turn right and bike inland for 3km before turning left on to the main Catlins Highway and heading south.

Distance: 53km.
Main climbs: 120m, 125m and 100m.
Estimated riding time without stops: 3 hours.

Soon you'll be climbing McDonalds Saddle.

Over the summit, watch for the Doc Tunnel Hill reserve on your right, at 12.6km.

Turn into the car park and head down the path to the tunnel.

You can lug your bike down if you fancy a ride on the dark side.

The tunnel, built by hand in 1891-92 and last used by trains about 1971, is a well preserved, interesting place.

From the tunnel, continue down the Catlins highway, enjoying the downhill but watching for the turnoff to Cannibal Bay, about 1.5km down the hill.

Turn left and head towards the coast on this undulating, rural gravel road.

At 22.5km you'll arrive at Cannibal Bay and its cluster of cribs.

The beach is well known for its wildlife.

Then it's back on the bike to start the stiff hill climb on the north side of the valley, continuing on Cannibal Bay Rd.

The road climbs for 2km, but you'll be rewarded with some great views if you look back.

Eventually, you'll reach the top and enjoy a gentle downhill as the road heads inland, then rejoins Ahuriri Flat Rd at 27.3km.

At 30.4km, you'll see a familiar corner when you reach the intersection with Karoro Creek Rd.

Turn right and head down this road we biked up at the start of the ride.

At 35.7km you'll reach the main road.

If you've had enough about now, you can turn left and head back to Kaka Point, just 1.5km down the road.

But if you want to visit the Nuggets, turn right and ride along the beachfront road.

The 8km ride to Nugget Point features a couple of hills, but you'll soon be up the top enjoying spectacular views.

You can often ride along the path right to the lighthouse before you take a break and scan the beaches 100m below for wildlife.

Then head back to your starting point, Kaka Point.

Next time: Exploring the peninsula.