The Hawdon River route follows a braided Canterbury river valley up towards the split where the valley divides. This is classic high-country terrain, with the river bed forming the route itself rather than any formed track.

Because it runs through a braided river system, the line you take changes fairly often with the weather and shifting channels. You'll need to read the river and pick your own adventure as you go, choosing the best gravel and crossings up the valley.

Keep an eye out for other users of the valley, as this is shared backcountry. It's a route that rewards capable 4WDs and drivers comfortable with river navigation and the variable nature of an unformed alpine valley.