Motatapu Track Vehicle Circuit
Gold rush trail through high tussock country
The Motatapu Track follows a centuries-old Māori trail across the spine of Central Otago, connecting Glendhu Bay on Lake Wanaka to historic Arrowtown via the Rose Saddle. This 42-kilometer route climbs through golden tussock country that hosted some of the South Island’s richest gold claims in the 1860s. The technical section comes at Fern Burn, where stream crossings and steep climbs through schist rock outcrops demand careful throttle work and decent ground clearance.
You’ll need a capable 4WD for the Rose Saddle crossing and rocky descents into Arrowtown. Summer and autumn (December-May) offer the best conditions, though Central Otago weather changes fast — carry chains and warm gear even in January. The track requires booking through the landowner, and camping is restricted to designated spots only. But the payoff includes panoramic views across three lake systems and access to some of the most pristine high country left in the South Island.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | High Clearance |
| Surface | Gravel, Rock |
| Features | High Altitude, Historic, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 26 mi / 42 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 4920 ft |
| Best season | December-May |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Wanaka, Otago |
| Land manager | Private stations and DOC |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | No |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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