Last updated July 2026
Discover the thrill of mountain biking on the Mt Vernon Farm Track in the Port Hills near Christchurch. This shared-use trail offers riders a rewarding climb through open farmland and tussock with expansive views across the city, Canterbury Plains and Southern Alps. The track forms part of the broader Port Hills network and provides convenient access to more technical routes on the Crater Rim.
Practical Information
| Location | Port Hills, Christchurch |
| Access | Mt Vernon car park on Summit Road (6.5 km east of Sign of the Kiwi) |
| Track type | Earth/grass 4WD track, shared use (walkers and mountain bikers) |
| Difficulty | Intermediate to advanced for full ride; sections suitable for beginners with care |
| Distance | Approximately 2.4–3.5 km one way (varies by route) |
| Time | 45 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on direction and connections |
| Management | Christchurch City Council and Port Hills Park Trust Board |
| Facilities | Limited; car park at trailhead, no toilets or water on track |
About Mt Vernon Farm Track
The Mt Vernon Farm Track runs through Mt Vernon Farm Park in the Port Hills, a volcanic landscape that has long been used by local Māori for food gathering and vantage points. European settlers later established farms here, leaving pastoral tracks that remain in use today. The area is now protected for recreation and conservation, with native bush regeneration supported by the Port Hills Park Trust Board and Christchurch City Council.
Riders start at the Mt Vernon car park on Summit Road and follow the wide earth-and-grass surface uphill. The route offers steady climbs with panoramic views before connecting to the Rapaki Track car park or other Crater Rim trails. It is a popular link track rather than a highly technical descent, making it ideal for building fitness or extending rides across the Port Hills network.
The track is shared with walkers, so riders must give way and control speed. Conditions can change quickly with weather; the open terrain offers little shelter. Dogs are permitted on leash in some sections of the park, but always check current rules.
Trail Connections and Riding Options
The Mt Vernon Farm Track links directly to the Rapaki Track and provides access to more challenging mountain bike routes on the Crater Rim, including connections toward Bowenvale and Huntsbury. Riders can create loops by combining it with the Summit Road or other shared tracks. The surface is generally wide and rideable in both directions, though steeper sections near the top test climbing ability.
Access and Getting There
The main trailhead is the Mt Vernon car park on Summit Road, reached by driving or riding approximately 6.5 km east from the Sign of the Kiwi. Public transport options are limited, so most visitors drive. A car park is available at the start. Always confirm current track status on the Christchurch City Council website before heading out, as maintenance or weather can cause temporary closures.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors praise the steady climb and rewarding 360-degree views over Christchurch and the plains. Many describe it as a good fitness ride that connects well to other Port Hills trails, though some note it can be exposed and muddy after rain.
Riders appreciate the wide, non-technical surface that suits a range of abilities when used as a link track. Walkers and cyclists alike mention the peaceful farmland setting and easy access from the city.
Where to Learn More
Christchurch City Council Port Hills page: Official maps, track descriptions and current status for all Port Hills trails.
CCC Mt Vernon Park Track page: Details on the 4WD track surface and connections to Crater Rim routes.
Port Hills Park Trust FAQ: Information on permitted activities including mountain biking restrictions within Mt Vernon Farm Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
What skill level is required?
Intermediate to advanced riders will find the full route most enjoyable due to the climb and connections, but the wide surface allows careful beginners to use sections.
Is the track shared with walkers?
Yes, it is a shared-use track. Riders must give way to walkers and control their speed.
Where is the main access point?
The primary trailhead is the Mt Vernon car park on Summit Road, about 6.5 km east of the Sign of the Kiwi.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are permitted on leash in designated areas of Mt Vernon Farm Park; check current rules with the managing trust.
What facilities are available?
A car park is provided at the trailhead. There are no toilets or drinking water on the track itself.
Can I link it to other trails?
Yes, it connects to the Rapaki Track and provides access to Crater Rim mountain bike routes.
Is the track open year-round?
The track is generally open but can close temporarily for maintenance or extreme weather; always check the Christchurch City Council status page.
Who manages the track?
It is managed by Christchurch City Council in partnership with the Port Hills Park Trust Board.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.