HANMER SPRINGS BIKE RENTAL FIELD GUIDE
Twin Passes Over-the-Top: A One-Day Jack’s Pass to Jollies Pass Mountain-Bike Escape
A four-hour mountain-bike outing from the summit of Jack’s Pass across high-country tussock and historic Jollies Pass, with bike hire, shuttle transport, a water bottle and a hot pools pass included.
Twin Passes Over-the-Top: A One-Day Jack’s Pass to Jollies Pass Mountain-Bike Escape.
Adventure brief
Twin Passes Over-the-Top: A One-Day Jack’s Pass to Jollies Pass Mountain-Bike Escape
From the shuttle ride to the 3,000 ft summit of Jack’s Pass to a forested descent into Hanmer township, this Twin Passes Over-the-Top tour stitches high-country tussock, Clarence River valley views and a historic pass into a single, compact mountain-biking day—finished with a dip in the town’s hot springs.
Hanmer Springs, nestled in the scenic Canterbury region of New Zealand, offers a perfect blend of adrenaline and relaxation. The Twin Passes Over-the-Top Mountain Bike Tour by Hanmer Springs Adventure Centre is designed to provide cyclists with an unforgettable taste of high-country adventure. This guided mountain biking experience begins at Jack's Pass, where riders are treated to sweeping views of rugged peaks, alpine meadows, and dense forests. The trail winds through diverse terrain, from challenging technical climbs to smooth forest tracks, showcasing the area’s geological diversity and native flora. Participants can expect to encounter native birds and perhaps a curious wallaby along the way, adding to the thrill of the journey.
What truly sets this tour apart is the culmination of the ride—an optional soak in the region’s famous hot springs. After burning some calories on the trail, visitors can unwind in the naturally warm waters, soaking in mineral-rich pools that have been a key part of local culture for generations. This combination of high-energy riding and peaceful relaxation makes the tour a standout activity for outdoor enthusiasts and casual adventurers alike.
The adventure is suitable for those with moderate fitness levels, offering an estimated half-day trip that includes technical cycling segments and scenic breaks. All necessary gear—including helmets, bikes, and safety equipment—is provided, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience for everyone. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a curious beginner, Hanmer Springs' trails and thermal waters deliver a well-rounded outdoor escape.
Perfectly situated within a renowned outdoor recreation area, this trip highlights Hanmer Springs' reputation as a premier mountain biking destination with the added bonus of relaxing hot springs, making it a must-try for visitors eager for adventure and downtime.
Route Schematic
Route schematic
Key stops and moments along the Twin Passes route.
Jack’s Pass summit (shuttle start)
The day begins with a shuttle ride to the top of Jack’s Pass (3,000 ft), where bikes are readied and the route down into the high country begins.
Clarence River valley and tussock lands
Riding across the South Island high country, expect open tussock landscapes and wide valley vistas as you make your way toward the next pass.
Historic Jollies Pass
Cross historic Jollies Pass en route—this is a defining high-country moment on the route before the descent begins.
Forest descent into Hanmer township and hot pools
The final leg drops through forest into Hanmer Springs township, where the ride concludes and riders can use the included Hot Pools pass to recover.
Participants should note the operator may adjust the route based on conditions; the experience is offered with an age minimum and other participation requirements.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
High-country to township over two passes
Start at the summit of Jack’s Pass and traverse South Island high country across the Clarence River valley, cross historic Jollies Pass and descend through forest back to Hanmer—each landscape offering distinct riding and outlooks.
Shuttle, bike hire and essentials covered
The tour package includes the shuttle ride to the top of the mountain plus bike hire, helmet and map, a drink and a hot pool pass—simplifying logistics so riders can focus on the trail.
Soak and recover in Hanmer Hot Springs
After the descent into town the day rounds out with access to the Hot Springs—an intentional recovery for tired legs and a quiet way to close the outing.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
The tour moves quickly: a shuttle to the top of Jack’s Pass sets the tone, then you ride through open high-country tussock and along the Clarence River valley, over Jollies Pass and down through forest into the township—all contained in a four-hour window that ends with a hot pools pass.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this tour suits—and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The outing is a four-hour program that begins with a shuttle to the summit and finishes back in Hanmer Springs.
Includes shuttle to the top of the mountain, bike hire, helmet and map, a drink/water bottle and a hot pools pass.
Helmet and map are provided as part of the tour; bike hire and shuttle are included in the package.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Twin Passes tour?
The tour runs for approximately 4 hours.
What is the minimum age to participate?
Participants must be at least 10 years old.
Is bike hire included?
Yes—bike hire is included in the tour package.
Does the tour include transport to the trailhead?
Yes—the package includes a shuttle ride to the top of Jack’s Pass.
Are hot pools included after the ride?
A hot pools pass is included as part of the tour, allowing riders to relax after the descent.
What safety items are provided?
The operator provides a helmet and a map as part of the tour inclusions.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-24T23:40:58.580Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.