Image: Will Nelson, Tourism Central Otago | ©
Person cycling on track along river.
Sphinx Rock Track

Located in Flat Top Hill Conservation Area in the Otago region

A tough mountain biking track that climbs uphill with numerous switchbacks.

This is a purpose built mountain biking track, it is not recommended for tramping. The track provides access to the Roxburgh Gorge Trail (Ngā Haerenga New Zealand Cycle Trails). It is recommended that trampers/walkers use the Roxburgh Faces Tramping Track as an alternative as an access between the Roxburgh Gorge Trail and the Flat Top Hill Tramping Track.

With great views at the top and a flowing downhill descent thistrack provides big views of the area. This track is used by mountain bikers as both uphill and downhill.

The track climbs 400 m between the Roxburgh Gorge Trail and Flat Top Tramping Track at the summit ridge. This is the best way for bikers to access the Roxburgh Gorge Trail. The lower section has nicely built flowing berms.

Map and elevation profile on Trailforks.

Mountain biking

Mountain Bikers of Alexandra (MOA) has developed mountain biking trails in this area in partnership with DOC. These trails are purpose-built bike trails marked on the ground with blue markers.

Access to Flat Top Hill Conservation Area is via an easement over private land. Respect private property by keeping dogs on leashes until you reach the conservation area.

Travel south from Alexandra for 6 km along State Highway 8. Turn left into the Flat Top Hill carpark near Butchers Dam.

This track branches off Flat Top Hill Tramping Track.

This is a hot dry very exposed area, take water, a sunhat and wind protection. There is a toilet along the Butchers Dam Loop Track.

Flat Top Hill Conservation Area lies at the foot of Kopuwai Conservation Area. It contains one of New Zealand’s most threatened ecosystems – dry, short tussockland – with native species that grow in the driest conditions. The area includes impressive rock outcrops.