Description

The route is challenging, but is well marked with DOC poles for the whole route. However it would be challenging in places in poor weather.
Follow track through the farmland (leaving gates as found) before entering a short bush section. This climbs steadily, before dropping down to the Fernburn Hut.
Leaving Fernburn Hut, the track climbs steadily through open country to the first high point at Jack Hall's Pass (1275m)
There is a steep descent, before a 2nd short climb over the next ridge to drop down to Highland Creek Hut.
Drop down from the hut across the small creek, and then head straight up the next ridge, turning L) at the top, continuing up to the fenceline, before traversing around to the next descent. This is another steep drop down the ridge, through a welcome stretch of beech forest (with a stream that can be accessed for water most of the year), before crossing to the next ridge and beginning the next climb up.
Once the next high point is reached, there is a further traverse along and down the ridge, with a final steep descent down to Motatapu Road.

Turn R) for approx 100metres on the farm road and re-enter the trail on the opposite side of the road using the stile (not signed but you can see marker poles on the far side). It's now just a few hundred metres to Rose Hut.
From Roses, the trail heads straight up a long climb and over the saddle in front - Roses Saddle (1270m).
There is then is a long gradual descent down the ridges, on mostly moderate trail, to get to the Arrow River.
If the river is high, follow the poled high route. If the river is low, you can use the river to get to Macetown. If following the river, cut corners using the animal tracks where able. If you get your lines right you'll cross the river frequently but spend very little time actually in the river.
When you reach Macetown, the trail either continues down the river following the 4WD track with numerous river crossings, or follow the poled route up through Macetown (interesting historically). The latter is slightly longer with a bit more climb, but they are similar in terms of time.
The river trail will eventually end up on River Right, above the river, the road will now be well formed and a relatively easy run to get your rhythm back.
At the 6km to go mark you will join the road from Motatapu again, and there a few small climbs with a few river crossings to finish in Arrowtown.

Features of interest

You will see numerous lizards along the tops, and if lucky native Falcons.
Along Arrow River and Macetown there are old mine workings heading out to Arrowtown

Make Up of Run

Untracked / Route only: 5%

Technical Single Track: 55%

Moderate Single Track: 15%

Easy Single Track: 5%

Farm Road / 4WD Track: 20%

Route Data