Twizel River Trail
Track category
Easy access short walk
Time:
5-6 hr return
Distance:
24 km return
Description
This trail runs for 12 km over old farm tracks and a newly established river track. The river is intermittently lined with willow trees which provide plenty of shade on a hot summer's day. It is also a great place to explore and find an uncrowded swimming hole or fishing spot.
A young family walk the Twizel River
Trail
Mountain bikers, off-road runners, walkers and anglers will enjoy using Twizel River Trail. The pedestrian gates are wide enough for all-terrain baby buggies to fit through so that young families may also enjoy a stroll alongside Twizel River.
There are wonderful views of the Mackenzie Basin mountains along the trail. Aoraki/Mt Cook can be clearly seen from the latter part of the trail on a fine day. Meanwhile the end of the track makes a great vantage point for overlooking Lake Benmore. From here, recreationalists can either return the same way, or alternatively, return back to Twizel on Ohau River Road.
Twizel Walkway
Another walkway/mountain-bike ride goes around Twizel township itself. It follows a different area of Twizel River, upstream from the Twizel River Trail. This circuit is 9 km long, is well-marked and dogs are allowed.
Getting there
Twizel River Trail is located opposite Twizel township area on the eastern side of SH8. Look out for a pedestrian gate along with a Department of Conservation sign.
Twizel township is deep in the heart of the Mackenzie Basin, South Canterbury, South Island.
Activities
Mountain biking
Plan and prepare
No dogs, horses or trail bikes are permitted on the trail.
Mountain-biking track
Grade 2: mostly flat with some gentle climbs on smooth track with easily avoidable obstacles such as rocks and potholes.
Time to bike 2 hr 30 min - 3 hr return.
Mountain bikers give way to walkers. Watch out for rabbit holes on the last third of the track - you could accidently catch a wheel if not alert.
Fire
Fire restrictions apply to all DOC land. Check with the Twizel Information Centre or DOC for the current fire status.
Dial 111 in fire emergency.
Public easements
Please:
- stay on the public easement track
- leave gates as you find them
- do not disturb stock
Park your car on the grass verge at the track entrance (well away from SH8 traffic).
Didymo
Help us prevent the spread of didymo; please Clean, heck, Dry your footwear, bike and tyres after doing ay trip that involves river crossings. For more information about how to decontaminate your gear, go to www.biosecurity.govt.nz/didymo