Dusty Butt Trail
Schedule
| Date | Sign-on | Track Open | Track Close |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tue, 16 Feb 2027 | TBC | TBC | TBC |
| Wed, 17 Feb 2027 | TBC | TBC | TBC |
| Thu, 18 Feb 2027 | TBC | TBC | TBC |
About this Ride
Location
Based in Fairlie in the South Island High Country, with overnight stops in Alexandra on 16 and 17 February, returning to Fairlie on 18 February.
Registration, dinner and compulsory briefing are on Monday 15 February at the Gladstone Grand Hotel in Fairlie. Briefing starts at 20:00.
The ride
Three-day adventure ride covering about 1400 km through scenic and remote lower South Island areas, on and off road. Suitable for both big and small bikes that are well maintained, fully serviced, and road registered.
The route includes station access and trails that are only available during this event period due to special land permissions. Riders can expect a mix of scenic riding plus optional challenge sections.
Sections may be steep, slippery, rough, and include stream and river crossings. Riders should have a moderate level of off-road skill and be prepared for 10-15 hours riding per day.
Optional challenge sections include rough, steep or rutted tracks and multiple stream and river crossings for competent off-road riders.
Requirements
- Ride with a buddy or group.
- No official recovery service is provided.
- GPS navigation is mandatory.
- Groups are advised to have at least two riders competent with GPS navigation.
- Bike should have approximately 300 km fuel range, or carry extra fuel in an NZ standards compliant container.
- At least one rider in each group should carry a comprehensive toolkit and be able to carry out basic repairs.
- Spare tubes are recommended.
Conditions
Much of the route is sub-alpine to alpine, up to 1700 m. Riders must be prepared for severe weather including rain, wind, cold temperatures, and possible snow, and carry spare warm and waterproof clothing regardless of forecast.
Fees
- Entry fee: $425
- Includes Monday registration and briefing
- Includes Monday buffet dinner
- Includes Dusty Butt 2027 tee
- Includes ride pack
- Includes lucky draw Monday night
- Includes GPS route downloads
- Includes all land access fees and permitting
Accommodation
Riders need to arrange their own accommodation.
Required nights noted by organiser:
- Fairlie: Monday 15 February and Thursday 18 February
- Alexandra: Tuesday 16 February and Wednesday 17 February
Notes
Entries are limited to the first 150 riders.
An event checklist is sent on registration, with further information closer to the event date.