Borland Road walking tracks
Walking track
Getting there
Turn off the Southern Scenic Route, between Clifden and Manapōuri just north of the Blackmount School.
The gate just after Borland Lodge marks the beginning of the Borland Road. The road is maintained for construction purposes only and access is permitted as road conditions allow. The Borland Road may be closed at any time and closures can last for periods of up to six weeks. Contact the DOC Murihiku Area Office to find out the road's status.
The return distance from Borland Lodge to South Arm at Manapōuri is 90 km by road.
About the area
The Borland Road provides access into Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Area. The road provides access for trampers, hunters, mountain bikers, anglers, kayakers and those wishing to take a backcountry scenic drive.
Manapōuri is the fifth largest and second deepest lake in New Zealand. It is also one of the most beautiful. Several tracks start on the eastern shores of Lake Manapōuri.
Snowdon Forest is a popular area for visitors who can fish brown and rainbow trout; hunt deer, pigs or possums; or walk the many tracks.
Fiordland National Park is a vast, remote wilderness and heart of Te Wāhipounamu - South West New Zealand World Heritage Area.
Description
The Peninsula Lookout
Time: 30 min return
A pleasant walk from the Lake Monowai picnic area through attractive, mature beech forest to a seat overlooking the lower reaches of the lake.
Borland Nature Walk
Time: 40 min return
A self-guiding brochure available at the start of the track gives an insight into forest life and asks the question "What is the forest for?".
Places to stay
Borland Lodge
Run by the Borland Lodge Trust, Borland Lodge caters mainly for school groups. However, accommodation for casual groups can be arranged by contacting the lodge warden - Telephone +64 3 225 5464.
Plan and prepare
The Borland Road is unsealed, narrow and steep in places, and subject to slips, washouts, snow, ice, high winds and fallen trees.
Because of the nature of the area, the Borland Road may be closed without notice and people using the road do so at their own risk. Contact the DOC Murihiku Area Office for more information about the road.
There are no fuel, communication (including cell phone coverage) or emergency services along its length, therefore only those properly equipped should attempt to negotiate the road.
It is not suitable for campervans, caravans or trailers. Vehicles are not allowed off the main road.
What to expect on a walking track:
- Easy to moderate walking from a few minutes to a day
- Track is mostly well formed, some sections may be steep, rough or muddy
- Suitable for people with low to moderate fitness and abilities
- Clearly sign posted. Stream and river crossings are bridged
- Walking shoes or light tramping/hiking boots required
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