So I made it across the Rimutaka Ranges from Maymorn to Cross Creek! Cross Creek Station was once occupied by several cottages, a hall, school, library, locomotive depot and a locomotive turntable. The actual Rail Trail goes on past here but is now on private land, so a single track to a car-park has been created to get you back to Featherston.
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| Cross Creek Station |
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| After 3 and a half hours I'm glad to be here |
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| Look! Longdrops! |
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| Singletrack to the Cross Creek Carpark |
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| Through the bush |
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Past the flats. I met Dad on this track walking
along to meet me. |
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Back at the Start/Finish - but you wouldn't want to
bike up from this direction! |
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| My support crew pick up |
I couldn't end the story without visiting the Fell Museum in Featherston to see my old playmate - Fell Engine H-199. She is the only remaining Fell engine from the six that serviced the Rimutaka Incline for 77 years. I have to say it was quite an emotional moment to see the old girl all done up to the nines. She's looking so good and has well-and-truly earned her retirement. H-199 and her fellow Fell Engines deserve to have their exploits admired for years to come.
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| Fell Museum, Featherston |
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Wow! There she is! Fell Engine H-199.
Doesn't she look good! |
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| Inside the cab. I've played with all those knobs... |
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| ...and turned all those wheels :) |
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Yes I did shed a little tear.
Wonder if she remembers me too :) |
I felt like I was 10 years old again seeing my old playmate. It was a fitting end to my Rimutaka Cycle Trail expedition. It's been many decades since I have seen H-199 but I'd know her anywhere :)
I definitely recommend biking this trail, it's a nice easy ride with lots of historic points of interest, well maintained and beautiful scenery. If you want it really easy I would start at the Kaitoke Carpark.
And if you weren't a trainspotter before you set out, you might very well become one by the end!
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