Lindis Valley tracks
Located in Lindis Valley area in the Otago region
Introduction
A range of tracks for walkers and mountain bikers alike, in an attractive, upland valley. Easily accessed off SH8 between Tarras and Omarama.Mountain biking
Intermediate: Grade 3Advanced: Grade 4
Seasonal restrictions
McPhies Ridge Track: Pleasant Valley carpark and the public access tracks that extend from it are closed for lambing from 10 October to 5 December.
Dog access
Chain Hills and Coal Creek Conservation Area
Turnoff SH8 onto Goodger Road and, depending on the season and road condition, drive along the unsealed road to the Tim Burn or Pleasant Valley carparks. You can walk, run or bike from either carpark, Each has a panel with a map of the area and its tracks. The small Coal Creek Conservation Area protects a native fishery.
Shirlmar Track
Time: 2-2.5 hr one way
Distance: 9 km
From Pleasant Valley, this track heads up the right branch of the Tim Burn to the northern end of the Chain Hills, 1,000 m above sea level, before dropping down into Dunstan Creek.
Long Acre Track
Time: 1.5-2 hr one way
Distance: 7 km
“This track branches off McPhies Ridge Track to head up the Chain Hills before dropping down the other side into Dunstan Creek.
Chain Hills Track
Time: 1-1.5 hr one way
Distance: 5 km
From its junction with Shirlmar Track, this track undulates south along the tops of the Chain Hills to connect with the Long Acre Track. The Chain Hills Track continues to Dunstan Pass, giving access to the Lauder Conservation Area.
McPhies Ridge Track
Time: 6-7.5 hr
Distance: 25 km
This public easement through private farmland is a route that goes up and along McPhies Ridge. It links Cluden Creek Road to Goodger Road, providing good views of the Chain Hills.
Nine Mile Historic Reserve
The reserve is 6 km down Old Faithful Road and can be reached by vehicle, on foot or by mountain bike. The main focus here is the old stone Lindis Hotel. The nearby Lindis River was the site of Otago's first gold discovery.
Camping is available in the reserve behind the hotel.
The Lindis Valley is a 45 minute drive from Wanaka on SH8, between Tarras and Omarama.
The Tim Burn and Pleasant Valley car parks are located at the end of Goodger Road (4WD recommended).
The McPhies Ridge Track can also be accessed from Cluden Creek Road – cross the small bridge over the Lindis River to park at the trailhead.
- Neither hunting nor dogs are permitted on these tracks and reserves.
- Fires are not permitted in the historic reserve and campers are asked to take their rubbish with them.
- The only public toilet in the area is at the Nine Mile Historic Reserve.
- Access tracks cross private property. Respect livestock and property, leave gates as you find them and use stiles where provided.
Be avalanche alert: This area has terrain that can produce avalanches that cross the track, usually from May into November. View avalanche information.
Stay safe in the outdoors
- Take the right gear for your trip: Walking and tramping gear lists.
- Tell a trusted person your plans and when to raise the alarm if you haven’t returned. Send them the information directly, or use the Outdoor Intentions form or Plan My Walk.
- Follow the five essential steps of the Land Safety Code.
Contacts
| Tititea / Mount Aspiring National Park Visitor Centre | |
| Phone: | 0272696871 |
| Fax: | 03 4437660 |
| Email: | wanakavc@doc.govt.nz |
| Address: |
1 Ballantyne Road Wanaka 9305 |
| Postal Address: |
PO Box 93 Wanaka 9343 |
| Full office details | |