Leith Saddle Track
Dunedin · Otago · Out & Back
This walk comes from licensed public walk data and is being progressively confirmed against the authorities. Signs on the day always win. DOC’s own wording: “Leith Saddle Track: "Dogs on a leash only. Other pets on conservation land rules."”. Evidence: a hand-checked correction against the authority. How we check dog rules.
Good to know
Dogs are allowed here. Keep them on the lead, watch for ground-nesting birds and stock, and read the signs at the gate.
About Leith Saddle Track
Leith Saddle Track is an out-and-back of 6.1 km, near Dunedin in Otago.
DOC's own page for this track says dogs on a leash only, so keep the lead on for the whole climb from Waitati Valley Road through the cedar boardwalk to Trig S and the microwave station on Swampy Summit. Above the bushline the track runs through tussock and flax where ground birds nest, which is the reason for the rule.
It sits at the moderate end and gains roughly 339 m, pitching up to 25 % at its steepest, and takes about 2–2.5 hr to walk.
Walkers come for native forest and big views. Dogs are allowed here, on the lead. Walkers rate it 4.3 / 5 across 155 reviews.
