The Mt Vernon Grand Traverse 2026

Redwood Gateway Carpark marks the start for a series of "off road hill runs" organized by Marlborough Harriers, with Mt Vernon central to the event. The Mt Vernon Grand Traverse offers the character of a traditional club hill run: it follows the boundary lines of Wither Hills Farm park, features open farm-park terrain, and includes sufficient climbing to earn respect for the ridge. The primary course ascends Mt Vernon and traces the park boundaries. The shorter option includes a swift climb to Mt Vernon before joining the traverse route and descending to the finish. This event attracts older juniors and adults for the hill runs, and also features a Kids' Challenge on the Mapp Track with "plenty of smaller hills for smaller legs." This phrasing indicates a focus on the running aspect rather than a highly produced spectacle.