Mountain Biking the Dusky Trail
The Dusky Trail
This 23 km-long trail offers a great mountain biking experience, with wonderful views of the Mackenzie Basin. It is also suitable for horse trekkers, runners and walkers.
Access
There are two entrances to the Dusky Trail. One starting point is located on Aoraki/Mt Cook Road (SH 80), about 4 km from the SH 8 turn-off. There is a designated car parking area here.
The second entry point—and the closest to Twizel — is at Fraser Stream. Look out for the Department of Conservation sign for Dusky Trail beside Glen Lyon Road, on the western outskirts of Twizel.
Route Description
From the Fraser Stream entrance, travel along the marked trail through public conservation land beside Fraser Stream. At the Darts Bush/Fraser Stream junction, the trail continues on a public easement and steadily climbs through tussock country beneath the Ben Ohau Range. After crossing Fraser Stream, the trail traverses the lower flanks of The Black Hills and reaches a high point of 780 metres. The trail then descends a public easement past an old private mustering hut before crossing Twizel River. The trail gently descends bumpy flats alongside Twizel River, before climbing up to the Aoraki/Mt Cook Road car park.
Baikie Hut
This hut can be visited as a side trip from the main Dusky Trail. From the Twizel River crossing, it is 4 km to Baikie Hut (4 bunks), a great venue for picnicking or an overnight stay. This hut has been substantially renovated. The original hut was built during the 1920s as part of the Dusky run block. The trail derives its name from this connection.
Public easements
This trail has been formed as a result of Ben Ohau, Rhoborough and Pukaki Downs stations negotiating the tenure review process. Land has been secured for the public along the Ben Ohau Range on the western outskirts from Twizel. To be able to reach conservation land there are agreed easements (public right of way) through private farm land. Roughly half the Dusky Trail travels along easements.
Take care visiting natural areas
River crossing: This trail involves crossing several rivers, with a major crossing of the Twizel River. Do not attempt to cross if the river is swollen or discoloured.
Public easements: Keep to the public easement tracks and use the small pedestrian gates. Please close these gates after you.
Stock: Stock may be present on private farm land. Do not disturb animals.
Didymo: Please take all necessary pre-cautions before and after entering the rivers to avoid the spread of didymo. See www.biosecurity.govt.nz.
Fire: Fires restrictions apply to all public conservation land. Check with the Twizel Information Centre or DOC for the current fire status.
Dogs: Dogs are not permitted on Dusky Trail
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