Just south of Lake Tennyson in the St James Conservation Area, this old stock route runs from the days when the whole place was part of the vast St James Station.

Generally moderate and easy enough if you take it slowly, but it's bumpy and slow going. Expect rocky sections and short, steep channels crossing the track at the entries and exits. Decent ground clearance is essential, so leave the low-clearance crossovers at home. Alpine weather turns fast up here too, with sun, rain, hail and snow all possible inside an hour.

The payoff is the scenery: sweeping views of Mount Una, the Spencer Mountains and the Waiau River Valley, with long outlooks down to the valley floor. Vehicles aren't permitted on the Waiau River bed or across to the western side of the conservation area. You'll need to sort gate access through DOC before heading in, as the codes change often.