A rough, rocky climb up into the high country of inland Otago, topping out around 1200 metres. The track's well graded but bumpy, and on a clear day the view over the surrounding tops is hard to beat.

You'll pass a few good huts along the way that make decent places to stay, plus historic gold workings scattered through the tops. There are plenty of small creek and drain crossings, and sharp transverse ridges that can catch out low-clearance vehicles. Towbars and exhausts have been known to clunk. A stock vehicle with reasonable ground clearance should manage fine, but allow plenty of extra time. It's slow going, and rougher than the photos let on.

Weather can turn quickly up here, so come prepared. There's a connection toward Johnstons Creek if you want to extend the trip. Note the seasonal closure from 30 April to 25 October.