Saddle Ridge Track

WalkCanterburyOpen

Grade
Advanced
Walking time
3 hr
Distance
7 km
Biking time
Over 4 hours
Dogs
Under control

Access: read before you go

Saddle Ridge Track can be accessed from West Manuherikia 4WD Track and East Manuherikia 4WD Track.

Source: DOC Te Papa Atawhai.

Getting there

We have not checked a road end or car park for this place yet, so we do not give driving directions to it. Check how to get there before you go. Some routes cross private land and need the landowner's permission.

How to get there, on doc.govt.nz

Saddle Ridge Track can be accessed from West Manuherikia 4WD Track and East Manuherikia 4WD Track.

Source: DOC Te Papa Atawhai.

Map

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Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors. Topo map: LINZ, CC BY 4.0. 44.62921° S, 169.99818° E

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About this place

A rough and steep track that links the West and East Manuherikia 4WD Tracks. There are spectacular views of Aoraki Mount Cook.

The route

Starting from the saddle on the East Manuherikia 4WD Track, the track climbs the ridge and then descends steeply to Omarama Saddle, where it meets the West Manuherikia 4WD Track. Loop options:

Source: DOC Te Papa Atawhai.

Know before you go

Pack the right gear

Take clothing for all weather – this includes packing warm, waterproof clothing and sun protection. Topographical maps are essential for all backcountry trips. Carry equipment for emergencies, including a torch, first aid kit, spare food and water, and something to use as an emergency shelter. Mobile phone coverage is not reliable. We recommend carrying a distress beacon. DOC packing lists

Be careful of rivers

If you plan to cross unbridged rivers, know how to cross safely and be prepared for if you cannot cross. Do not cross if the river is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop. If in doubt, stay out. Be aware of weather conditions in the catchment headwaters. Check fords before entry. How to cross rivers safely

No fires

Fires are not allowed anywhere in Oteake Conservation Park.

Check the weather forecast

NIWA Weather: Ida Railway Hut

Shared use tracks

Many of the tracks in Oteake Conservation Park are shared use. You may encounter walkers, mountain bikers and people riding horses. Take care and respect other track users.

There may be avalanche danger

Oteake Conservation Park has avalanche terrain. Be avalanche alert in Wakatipu, Wānaka and Central Otago

Source: DOC Te Papa Atawhai.

Notes from people who have been

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Sources

  • DOC Tracks (API) · CC BY 4.0Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai. Data sourced from the DOC Developer Portal (api.doc.govt.nz).
  • DOC Tracks & Trails · CC BY 4.0Data sourced from the Department of Conservation (DOC), New Zealand.