Breast Hill Track
Track category
Tramping track
Time:
2 days
Distance:
18 km one way
Description
Times and distances:
Lake Hawea view from Breast Hill
- Dingle Burn Rd entrance to Pakituhi Hut: 4-5 hrs (4km)
- Pakituhi Hut to Stodys Hut via Breast Hill: 4-5 hrs (12.5km)
- Pakituhi Hut to Stodys Hut via 4WD track: 3-4 hrs (13km)
- Stodys Hut to Timaru River junction: 1 -1.5 hrs (1.5km)
- Stodys Hut to Top Timaru Hut: 6-7.5 hrs (13.5 km)
- Stodys Hut to Timaru River carpark: 5-6.5 hrs (12.5km)
Note: Times indicated are in the direction of track from Dingle Burn Road to Timaru River Junction. Time allowances may need to be adjusted for those going in the opposite direction and those not confident in this type of terrain.
From the Dingle Burn Road to Pakituhi Hut the track is a steady climb rising 400m on a formed zig-zag track to a small saddle. The next section of track follows a prominent ridge to the highest point (1300m) before a short descent to the hut. On clear days, trampers will be rewarded with stunning views over Lake Hawea and the surrounding landscape including Mt Aspiring/Tititea.
From Pakituhi Hut an alternate route, bypassing Breast Hill, is available following a 4WD track to Stodys Hut. This undulating track affords spectacular mountainous views including Corner Peak and the St Bathans range.
Stunning Central Otago landscape
From Stodys Hut the track descends to the Timaru River via a marked tree lined ridge. Trampers at this point have the option to proceed towards Top Timaru Hut and the Ahuriri Valley or back towards the Timaru River carpark making it into a loop track.
Note: This track crosses Lake Hawea station, a working high country farm. Please respect the landowner's livestock and property and stay on the marked track.
Getting there
Dingle Burn Road entrance is signposted 1 km from Johns Creek township or approximately 6 km from Lake Hawea township.
Plan and prepare
Breast Hill Track is particularly demanding due to its exposed nature and physically challenging terrain. Please note and adhere to the following:
- It is only suitable for experienced trampers.
- Sections of the track have limited marking and in low cloud trampers will need navigational skills.
- The climate is typically Central Otago, and very hot, dry conditions are common in summer.
- Carry plenty of water, as water sources are limited, and have adequate protection against the sun.
- Wintry conditions can occur at any time of the year, with the higher country subject to snow, especially during winter.
- Be prepared by having warm, windproof clothing and the appropriate footwear