Zigzag

If you're seeking a challenging technical route near Nelson City, Zigzag offers an intriguing opportunity to test your 4WD skills on a compact but demanding section. Despite its modest 1.0 km length, this trail packs considerable character into a short distance, making it ideal for drivers who want to experience technical driving without committing to a lengthy expedition.

You'll navigate a series of tight switchbacks and steep terrain changes that demand precision and vehicle control. The landscape surrounding this trail showcases the rugged beauty typical of Nelson's backcountry, with native vegetation and dramatic elevation changes creating an engaging driving environment. The compact nature of the route means you can focus entirely on line selection and throttle management rather than endurance driving.

Before tackling Zigzag, ensure your vehicle is in optimal mechanical condition and your tyres have good grip—technical sections like this reward careful driving and penalise hesitation. Check conditions locally, as weather can impact the trail's difficulty significantly. While the trail remains unrated officially, its tight nature suggests intermediate to advanced driving experience would be beneficial. Consider using the Newtracs app to access detailed trail information and connect with other local drivers who've explored this unique Nelson gem.