Suitable for 4WD vehicles, as well as horse riding and mountain biking, this track climbs a total of 500 m of elevation, steeply at first before easing towards the top. The highest point is 1200 m above sea level and provides good views over the Maniototo Plain.

Seasonal access:

• summer access is open to horse and 4WD (1 November – 30 April).
• winter access is open to horse only - no 4WD (1 May – 31 October). Gates code is required for horse access, contact Tititea/Mount Aspiring National Park Visitor Centre for information.

There is no public access from the Western Rock and Pillar Conservation Area to the main Rock and Pillar Conservation Area.

Access is signposted off Hamilton Diggings Road, east of Orangapai Road.

Weather: The Rock and Pillar Conservation Area is very exposed and subject to extreme temperatures – hot and dry in summer, freezing cold and covered in snow in winter.

Avalanches: Avalanche terrain is classified as 'simple' at the northern end of the Rock and Pillar Range and on the tops, and 'complex' on the eastern faces. If you plan to be in this area in winter or spring be avalanche alert.