Up in the Kopuwai Conservation Area in Central Otago, this is a remote high-country gold-mining trail that climbs to around 1750m. The ground off the side is swampy, and mushy underfoot near any lingering snow patches.

This is no shingle road. Rough and slow going, with rocky steep pitches, deep ruts and a few boggy holes, some with optional bypass lines. It's generally easier on the Bannockburn side and more technical toward the Garston end. It links to the Old Man Range and Nevis Road routes, and the offshoot tracks made by farmers and other 4WDers can confuse navigation, so keep an eye on where you are.

The views get better as you go, opening right out across Central Otago, with the old Old Woman hut near the summit worth a look. Best driven in dry summer conditions, ideally in convoy with at least two vehicles. Help is rare and mobile coverage is patchy. Expect cold, fast-changing weather even in summer, and watch for low cloud or snow that can hide the track.