A proper hard route through the stunning, braided Rakaia River in Canterbury's high country. This track offers a true off-road adventure as you navigate ever-changing river channels and rocky terrain. Spend the day—or even longer—exploring the remote and rugged valley, with breathtaking alpine scenery as your backdrop. As this is a river route, the map provided is a 'best guess' based on past conditions, and you'll need to adapt your path to the current environment. Note that access from the Lake Heron side crosses private land, so arrange permission in advance ([email protected]) before heading in.

Traveling with at least one other vehicle is strongly recommended, as the risk of being bogged is high in the soft, shifting riverbed—deep, soft channels have turned parties back, including near where Redcliffe Stream meets the Rakaia. Always check depths before each crossing. Recovery gear, including winches and shovels, is a must, as is solid river-driving experience. Check weather and river levels first, and bring plenty of supplies—you'll be deep in a remote area with little to no cell reception.