A classic braided-river-bed run that heads deep into Canterbury backcountry, with huts dotted along either side of the river and good views the whole way. It's a slow bump-slog up the valley out to the middle of nowhere, finishing among a string of backcountry huts including Monument Hut, Red Hut and Dodger Hut.

The drive in to Monument Hut is generally easy to medium going, but expect multiple deep river crossings. Water can splash over your bonnet, so a snorkel is wise, and the crossings beyond Monument can get very deep, sometimes meaning you hunt around downstream for a better line. Past Red Hut it turns more technical and isn't suited to a stock 4WD without extra clearance. Dropping tyre pressures helps smooth out the ride.

River levels change fast, so the map line may not be exact and conditions vary trip to trip. Best tackled with more than one vehicle if it's your first time. Stay on the track and keep out of the Huxley Valley or beyond the Elcho Stream up the top. This is a spot we want to keep open for years to come.