An exhilarating extension of the Skippers Canyon route in Otago, The Branches Road carries you hundreds of metres above the river out towards the Shotover River heads. This is not one for those scared of heights — you wind along the edge of a cliff with spectacular canyon views the whole way. The earlier section is the most demanding, with a narrow track and very tight corners, including one sketchy bend a few minutes in that's worth scoping out on foot first. Once past the tighter bits, it settles into a thoroughly enjoyable drive. Expect a handful of small stream crossings and the odd waterfall to admire along the way. Two historic miners' huts sit beside the track and are worth stopping to walk through for a taste of the area's gold-mining past. There's also good offshoot access down to the river. Take it easy on the cliff edges, watch for low sun and dust on the return, and you'll be rewarded with one of the region's finest adventures.