Cockayne Alley Track
Located in Craigieburn Forest Park in the Canterbury region
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Introduction
This track links Dracophyllum Flat Track with Cheeseman Road.4 km one way
Mountain biking
Expert: Grade 5Dog access
Cockayne Alley Track connects the Middle Hut car park on Cheeseman Road with Dracophyllum Flat Track.
Starting from the top, the track descends steadily from Cheeseman Road through open terrain, then enters bush. It drops steeply down towards Tims Stream, then continues down the valley. The track crosses Cheeseman ski field access road, then shortly afterwards ends at the junction with Dracophyllum Flat Track.
This track is shared use and is a very challenging (Expert: Grade 5) mountain biking ride.
You can start this track from Middle Hut car park on Cheeseman Road, or from Dracophyllum Flat Track (30 min/1.1 km from Texas Flat). Carry chains in winter for Cheeseman Skifield access road.
There is a locked gate near the top of the ski field road, around the 1289 m high point. There is another gate lower on the road, near the ice skating rink. This gate is normally kept open but is sometimes closed for safety reasons (eg due to avalanche risk).
Check the weather forecast and pack for all weather
Check the forecast before you go. Always carry a raincoat and warm layers. This area gets hot in summer, so bring plenty of water and sun protection. Find a day hike packing list here.
Weather forecasts for Mt Cheeseman and Canterbury High Country
This is an expert-level track for mountain bikers
This challenging track is graded Expert: Grade 5 for mountain bikers. Make sure you have the skills before attempting it. There are lots of Intermediate: Grade 3 tracks in the area, which make a good alternative for less experienced riders.
No fires
No fires are allowed within Craigieburn Forest Park.
Expect wasps, especially in summer and early autumn
Wasp populations reach high numbers from January to March – wear light coloured clothing and carry antihistamine cream/tablets as a precaution.
Shared use area
This track is used by walkers and mountain bikers – be respectful of other users. Mountain bikers should go slow and be ready to encounter walkers.
Contacts
| Arthur's Pass National Park Visitor Centre | |
|---|---|
| Phone | +64 3 318 9211 |
| arthurspassvc@doc.govt.nz | |
| Address | 104 West Coast Road Arthur's Pass 7654 |
| Hours | See visitor centre hours |