ACCESS There is no cost or access permission required to ride this route . It ’ s public access under Department of Conservation management and open year-round . Even though this is a short 9km route , it does require careful planning around the weather . The track is often inaccessible in late spring and early summer when snow melt is in full swing and river levels are high . Heavy rain will see the river change from a gentle flow to a raging torrent in a dramatically short time . The river can quickly rise to become impassable in a matter of minutes . Like any New Zealand valley track , planning around the weather is absolutely key .
HIGHLIGHTS The views all the way up the valley are big , and impressive . Mixed with great riding terrain , this track is a brilliant choice for riders who like a fast-flowing track , mixed with epic mountain scenery . Once you reach the Taipo River , you ’ ll no doubt be impressed by the stunning aquablue coloured water .
WHO THE ROUTE IS FOR This is a great option for well-prepared riders with good riding skills , who are looking for a fun and rewarding challenge . It is not an ideal option for new riders or those not comfortable with river crossings .
FIND OUT MORE Full details , photos , and GPX files of this track and the accommodation options can be found on the Adventure Guide website . Alternatively , you can use Adventure Guide ’ s offline Navigator app to guide you , and keep you on-track . This route is one of over 1000 adventure routes featured on the Adventure Guide map ( both online and in the purpose built Adventure Guide app ) – along with hundreds of motorbike accessible campsites , huts , points of interest , and fuel stations .
ACCOMMODATION There are two DOC huts up the valley . Dillons Homestead Hut is reached first , followed by Dillon Hut which is around 600 metres further up the valley . The legal vehicle access for the Taipo River Track ends at Seven Mile Creek . This leaves around 200 metres to walk to Dillons Homestead Hut . You ’ ll often see where hunters and trampers park their cars , and walk to the hut from there .
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