The Braided Waters / Lake Hood Trail
Ashburton, Canterbury
About
Try this 16.4-km out-and-back trail near Ashburton, Canterbury. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 28 min to complete. This trail is great for birding, hiking, and mountain biking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are June through April.
Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
The Lake Hood Trail is a shared path popular for walking, running, and mountain biking. It will take you through the forest, along the bank of the Ashburton River to the top of Lake Hood. You can also walk/ride around the lake before going back and even stop in at the Lake House Restaurant for a drink and bite to eat.
Some cyclists continue further via Huntington Rd, Lake Hood Dr, Strangers Rd, and Grahams Rd to make this trail a full loop. A car park is located at the trailhead (SH1 bridge over Ashburton River).
Alternatively it will take between half an hour and one hour to cycle with almost any type of bike.
This is an excellent all mobility track. The track is level, of good construction to allow for walkers, runners, pushchairs, wheelchairs, mobility scooters, bikes, kids bikes etc.
Photos
Practical Info
Price
Free
Hours
6.00am - 6.00pm
Facilities
Getting here
Starting in Ashburton at the South end of the State Highway 1 Ashburton River Bridge, use the parking area on the west side of the bridge approach, walk under the bridge and turn right, walk 20m parallel to SH1, look for the sign which indicates the track.