Twizel walking and mountain bike tracks
Track category
Walking track
Tramping track
Mountain bike - Easy
Description
Find out about walking and mountain bike tracks near Twizel.
These are shared-use tracks. Follow the mountain bikers code: respect others, respect the rules, respect the track.
Pukaki Flats
Track classification: Walking track and easy mountain bike
Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (to Pukaki River return)
Distance: 10 km
This open block of hard tussock grasslands is located a short distance from Twizel. An old farm track travels beside the fence line and leads to Pukaki River. Native plant species found here include mat daisies, native broom, blue tussock and native daphne.
Twizel River Trail
Track classification: Walking track and easy mountain bike
Time: 5-6 hours (walking)
Distance: 24 km return
The Twizel River is intermittently line with willow trees which provide plenty of shade as you wander along the trail. Native fish such as the Canterbury galaxias (Galaxias vulgaris) and upland bully (Gobriomorphus breviceps) inhabit Twizel River, along with introduced trout. At the trail end you have an elevated view towards Lake Benmore and then it is an uphill return to the carpark.
Twizel Walkway
Track classification: Walking track and easy mountain bike
Time: 3 hours (walking)
Distance: 9 km circuit (easy ride)
This walk circles the Twizel township with highlights being the Twizel River and 'Man Made Hill'.
Mountain biking: Twizel Walkway makes a short and fun mountain bike ride for all the family. A detailed map is available from Twizel Information Centre.
Benmore Range Conservation Area
Track classification: Tramping track (no mountain biking)
Time: 8 hours return (walking)
Distance: 17 km; 800 m vertical
From the Wairepo Arm recreational area there is a public access easement to Benmore Range Conservation Area. There is no formed track and you must follow the boundary fenceline until reaching the conservation area which is signposted.
Getting there
Twizel lies in the centre of the South Island. It is 3.5 hours drive south of Christchurch on State Highway 8 or 3.5 hours drive north of Dunedin.
Activities
Mountain biking
Track descriptions
Plan and prepare
Topographical map for the area: BZ15, BZ16.
Be prepared: The climate in this region is traditionally very hot in summer and extremely cold in winter. New Zealand weather can change very rapidly so trampers need to be prepared for a range of conditions.
Fire: Fire restrictions apply to all public conservation land. Check with the Twizel Information Centre or Te Manahuna Area DOC office for the current fire status.
River crossing: Be aware of weather conditions in catchment headwaters. Do not attempt to cross swollen rivers or streams.
Before heading out:
- check weather conditions
- carry a map/GPS
- leave intentions with someone at home
- carry appropriate food, water and clothing
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