Last Updated: 21st Sep 2023

Beginner - Intermediate

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I've done it Done

Hawkdun Range Hustle

St. Bathans, Otago

Submitted by Kieran Philip

Last Updated: 21st Sep 2023

Beginner - Intermediate

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I've done it Done

Open

Grunt Factor: 29 ?

Gnarl Factor: 15 ?

21.8km

1070m

1070m

1728m

  

  

  

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Trail Map

Type of Run

Front country - easily accessible

Out and Back

Mountainous

Open farmlands

Open tussock/grasslands

Open ridges/tops

Run Makeup

90%
10%

Farm Road / 4WD Track

Moderate Single Track

Average Uphill Gradient: +11.0%

Average Downhill Gradient: -11.0%

Trailhead

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Estimated Times to Run

3:30

Slow

2:45

Moderate

2:00

Fast

Starting at the carpark, hop the gate and head up Pierces Gorge, this wee track will link up with the Mt Ida Irrigation Race Track. Follow the race along for a few kilometers and then when you get to the next gate, take the track on your right that heads up the hill. Follow this track for the remainder of the ascent - don't forget to turn around occasionally and admire the views! Once at the top its pretty flat, so you could add as many easy kms as you want in either direction - it is all part of the Oteake Conservation Area. Head back down the same track and back to your car.

Just more of that awesome Central Otago landscape. I recommend heading out early in the morning or late in the evening - getting the low angle light on the tussocks is stunning.

If you know of any public toilets near the trail start or on the route, please login and then let us know so we can update this section.

The carpark is located on your right as you head along Home Hills Runs Rd in the northerly direction. Plently of parking space, fairly remote so safety of car should be fine.

19 km

22 minutes

Unknown

No

Easy.

Turn right on the Water Race track before the gate.

Generally good.

Thermal leggings, Long-sleeved thermal top, Seam-sealed waterproof jacket, Gloves, Beanie/thermal headwear, Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Cellphone, Map

From the water race if you are keen, otherwise no.

Lots of snow in the winter, plus generally exposed in most directions so be prepared for quick changes in weather and wind.

Lost of loose rocks on track at top, don't twist an ankle!

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Trail Reviews

Spectacular day out. 5+ hours mostly hiking once away from the Race. Added a few kms on the road as I came in Home Hills Road from the East & didn’t want to try the gravel ford so I parked there. It’s really a 5 star location with stunning views & quality wilderness but not too runnable so maybe 4 stars for that?!

Sarah Anderson

January 31, 2023

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Overlapping Trails

These overlap with this trail to some degree. You may wish to combine them but please note that to qualify for FKTs on these runs you should record a separate activity for each.

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