Barlow Skid North 2

You'll discover an intriguing short route near Rodney that offers a compact off-road experience in the North Island's diverse terrain. Barlow Skid North 2 presents an opportunity to explore a lesser-known area where vehicle tracks wind through native bush and farmland, giving you a genuine sense of adventure despite its modest 0.8 km length. The trail's gentle grade makes it accessible for a wide range of 4WD enthusiasts, though the unrated status means you should approach with appropriate caution and local knowledge.

The driving experience here rewards curiosity rather than technical challenge. You'll navigate through mixed terrain that showcases the characteristic landscape of the Rodney region, with potential for scenic views across farmland and bush-clad hills. The short distance makes this an ideal complementary route if you're exploring multiple trails in the area, or a quick outing for those with limited time. Be prepared for variable ground conditions typical of forestry and agricultural access tracks—recent weather can significantly affect surface quality, so checking conditions beforehand is worthwhile.

While this trail remains unrated and untested by the Newtracs community, it represents the kind of hidden gems worth documenting. Bring appropriate recovery equipment and let someone know your plans before heading out. The compact nature of this route makes it suitable for learning off-road driving skills in a lower-pressure environment.