Image: Michael Hayward | ©
Cyclist on the Cuckoo Creek Track
Cuckoo Creek Track

Located in Craigieburn Forest Park in the Canterbury region

This shared-use track links Dracophyllum Flat Track with Cheeseman Road.

Cuckoo Creek Track is shared by mountain bikers and walkers.

The track junction with Dracophyllum Flat Track is 2.4 km (45 mins walking) from Texas Flat and 2.8 km (1 hour walking) from Broken River Road. The track climbs steadily until it reaches Cheeseman Road, the ski field access road.

If you plan to walk or bike back down the road, be cautious of other users. The road can be busy during the ski season.

You can start this track from Cheeseman Road or from Dracophyllum Flat Track. Carry chains in winter for Cheeseman Skifield access road.

There is a gate on Cheeseman 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 advanced track for mountain bikers

This track is graded Advanced: Grade 4. 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.

Keep your dog on a leash at all times; no fires

Dogs are allowed on this track but must be kept on a leash at all times. Keep to the track as ground-feeding birds are very vulnerable to dog disturbance. Please clean up after your dog.

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.