Double Hill Run Road climbs into the stunning Rakaia River area of inland Canterbury, with sweeping views out over the central divide. It offers a little bit of everything the South Island is known for. The route runs mostly along long, well-compacted gravel straights, with a few fords, minor river crossings and bridges along the way. Most crossings are straightforward, though one of the early fords can get tricky after heavy rain. The road passes through several working farms, so it's generally well maintained and easy to drive. At the end you're rewarded with the Rakaia River itself, where you can drive along the riverbed when levels are low. The steep dip down into the river at the very end may exceed some vehicles' approach angle, but a signposted DOC track on the southern end of Double Hill offers easier access right to the river edge. River access here also marks the start of some more challenging tracks. Expect plenty of wind in this exposed high-country setting. Well worth the trip up the valley.