Last Updated: 11th Sep 2026
Townshend Track
Last Updated: 11th Sep 2026
Open
Grunt Factor: 16 ?
Gnarl Factor: 1 ?
21.5km
Front country - easily accessible
Out and Back
Totally/mostly flat
Native bush
Riverside
Open farmlands
Farm Road / 4WD Track
Easy Single Track
Average Uphill Gradient: +0.00%
Average Downhill Gradient: -0.00%
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3:00
Slow
2:00
Moderate
1:20
Fast
This track follows the 4WD track over flat land to the over flat land to Wharfdale Hut.
Starting at Lee's Valley follow the clearly defined 4WD track heading west towards Mt Oxford/Black Hill. After 5km the track crosses the Townshend track from the true left, onto the true right with non negotiable wet feet before crossing back over onto the true left 7km in.
A flood track is present on the true left-hand side of the trail just before the first river crossing. Continue onwards before meeting the boundary of the forest at 9km in where there is DOC signage and a separation of the track.
Take the left track, crossing over a bridge, heading into Wharfdale Hut which you will meet 2km later. You'll be thankful you slapped on some insect repellent, otherwise you will inevitably become the biggest meal on offer to the awaiting colony of sandflies.
After bagging the hut, retrace your steps back to the car. Views on the way back to the car are 'Classic Canterbury' Landscapes and views down the Ashley river and up towards Mt Richardson.
This trail includes Wharfedale Hut.
Wharfedale Hut.
If you know of any public toilets near the trail start or on the route, please login and then let us know so we can update this section.
Parking is found a short 100m down the road in a noticeably defined area on the side of the road.
13 km
31 minutes
Unknown
Easy.
Non-existent.
Long-sleeved thermal top, Seam-sealed waterproof jacket, Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Survival bag, Cellphone, Map, Headtorch and spare batteries
Water is available from the Townshend River, however this MUST be treated as the area is a working farm.
Wasps present in summer. Exposed conditions on the 4WD track. Ensure you bring sunscreen.
Do not complete during heavy rain as the river may be impassable.
The information provided is a guide only. Conditions, access and hazards can change, so use your own judgement and check current local information before heading out. Make sure the route or location is suitable for your experience, fitness and equipment, and check any access restrictions or permissions that may apply.
Do you have a suggestion on where to go afterwards for the best coffee / cake / breakfast / brunch / beer?
Fastest Known Times (FKTs)
You and Wharfedale Hut Gravel Grind
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These overlap with this trail to some degree. You may wish to combine them but please note that to qualify for FKTs on these runs you should record a separate activity for each.
Length: 33.2km
Level: Intermediate - Experienced
Distance Away: 8.0km
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