Running between St Arnaud and Lake Rotoroa, this is a good scenic alternative to the highway. It links the Howard Valley end in the north over the hill and down to the lake shore. The payoff is that descent towards Rotoroa, with a fine outlook over the water before you drop into a set of tight hairpins.

The Rotoroa side is notably steep, so drop into low range to keep things controlled and your brakes happy. The rest winds gently over the hill on gravel with good flow and plenty of room to pass in most spots. After a regrade in early 2025 it's an easy gravel run. If your vehicle has a poor turning circle, start from the north end so you face the hairpins on the way down.

The country up top can get slick after rain, particularly on the side tracks beneath the powerlines, and there are some gnarlier mini-tracks branching off if you want a play. Gold-fossicking areas add a bit of interest, and there's a handy camp spot at the base by the lake. Roughly an hour from Nelson, well worth the detour.