For the faint-hearted!

Winter has well and truly arrived and the trails are getting slicker. It seems like the perfect time to revisit Silverstream, but to take on the sharp climb and descent of Powder Hill. What's more, this will prepare you for the Silver Stream Spin event in October. Meet at the Silverstream car park (see location). From there we head down Silverstream Valley Road to the beginning of Chalkies Track by Leishmans Stream. DoC say the track is "very steep going to reach the trig on top of Powder Hill and not for the faint-hearted". Its approximately 450 metres ascent over two-and-a-half kilometres once the track begins to the trig. Once there, it's an epic downhill through the bush to an easement through private property. Here, there is a 400 metre section of slightly overgrown, slippery track to negotiate before hitting a private road. Free acupuncture is provided by the ever-present gorse, so the falls aren't too bad! Once out onto the private road it is a quick trot back on unsealed roads to the car park. Just a shade over 6 km this week and about 450 metres of total ascent. It's a bit of a trek out to Silverstream but this little outing is worth it. Headlamp and trail shoes (no tarmac this week!). Unfortunately, I can't offer lifts out to the start this week. Message in the discussion if you're looking for a lift - assistance gratefully received!