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On-leadEasy

Dashing Rocks Loop Walk

Timaru · Canterbury · Loop

↑ 3 m gain↓ 0 m descenthigh 6 msteepest 2 %
DISTANCE1.4 km
ASCENT25 m
DURATION0.5–1 hr
STEEPEST2 %
ROUTELoop
RATING · HIKERS 4.5 · 51
DOG EFFORT1.3 /5 paws
PARKING380 m away
DirectionsApple MapsForecast at the trailheadDownload GPXSend the start point to your phone
Nearest emergency vetChristchurch After Hours Veterinary Centre, Christchurch~165 min drive · after-hours (nights+weekends)
03 366 1052
The route

Good to know

On the lead here. Keep it to two metres or less and watch for ground-nesting birds, as on most NZ tracks.

Beach swimOpen track, carry water for the dogGood with kids

About Dashing Rocks Loop Walk

Dashing Rocks Loop Walk is a loop of 1.4 km, near Timaru in Canterbury.

Expect easy going, with around 25 m of climb, pitching up to 2 % at its steepest, and takes about 0.5–1 hr to walk.

The track takes in beach walking and big views. Dogs are welcome here on the lead. Hikers rate it 4.5 / 5 across 51 reviews.

Stay nearby

Dog-friendly DOC campsites close to the trailhead, sort out the sleep, then walk.

Stay & walk

Pioneer Park Campsite

34.9 km awayCampsite details →
Quick answers

Frequently asked questions

Can my dog go off the lead on Dashing Rocks Loop Walk?

Dogs are welcome on Dashing Rocks Loop Walk on a lead. Keep the lead at two metres or less and watch for ground-nesting birds.

How long is Dashing Rocks Loop Walk?

Dashing Rocks Loop Walk is 1.4 km with roughly 25 m of climb and takes about 0.5–1 hr.

Is there water for my dog to swim on Dashing Rocks Loop Walk?

Yes, the track has beach access where a dog can cool off. In warm months check the LAWA water quality map for toxic algae warnings first.

Are there dog-friendly campsites near Dashing Rocks Loop Walk?

Yes. The closest is Pioneer Park Campsite, about 35 km away, and the track page lists more under Stay nearby. Every campsite shows its dog rules.

DOC dog-access rulesCamping with your dogGear checklist for dog hikes

Hikes nearby

The closest dog-friendly tracks to this trailhead, by straight-line distance.

Timaru Loop Walk

HardTimaru
26 km↑100 m6–6.5 hr★4.7 rating
Swim spotSealed underfoot

Breakwater

EasyTimaru
0.8 km↑1 m10m

Otipua Creek Walkway

EasyTimaru
3.1 km↑3 m0.5–1 hr★4.5 rating
Swim spotGood with kids

More in Canterbury

See every dog-friendly track in Canterbury →

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