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Off-lead OKEasy

Lincoln Wetlands Walk

Lincoln · Canterbury · Loop

↑ 0 m gain↓ 0 m descenthigh 8 msteepest 0 %

DISTANCE1.6 km

ASCENT12 m

DURATION0.5–1 hr

ROUTELoop

RATING · HIKERS 3.9 · 25

DOG EFFORT1.2 /5 paws

Directions Apple Maps Forecast at the trailhead Download GPX Send the start point to your phone

Nearest emergency vetChristchurch After Hours Veterinary Centre, Christchurch~20 min drive · after-hours (nights+weekends)

03 366 1052

The route

Good to know

Dogs can run off-lead here, one of only 323 tracks in Aotearoa where that’s allowed.

Lake swimOpen track, carry water for the dogGood with kids

Check the water before the dog swims. Toxic algae blooms in NZ rivers and lakes can kill a dog within hours. Scan the LAWA water quality map in warm months and keep dogs away from dark slime on rocks.

About Lincoln Wetlands Walk

This short track follows 1.6 km as a loop, near Lincoln in Canterbury.

Expect easy going, with around 12 m of climb, and takes about 0.5–1 hr to walk.

Walkers come for lakeside stretches. Dogs are allowed off the lead on this one. Hikers rate it 3.9 / 5 across 25 reviews.

Stay nearby

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

Stay & walk

Awaroa/Godley Head Campsite

25.3 km awayCampsite details →Stay & walk

Wooded Gully Campsite

52.6 km awayCampsite details →

Quick answers

Frequently asked questions

Can my dog go off the lead on Lincoln Wetlands Walk?

Yes. Lincoln Wetlands Walk is one of only 323 tracks in New Zealand where dogs can legally run off the lead. Check for seasonal wildlife closures before you unclip.

How long is Lincoln Wetlands Walk?

Lincoln Wetlands Walk is 1.6 km with roughly 12 m of climb and takes about 0.5–1 hr.

Is there water for my dog to swim on Lincoln Wetlands Walk?

Yes, the track has lake 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 Lincoln Wetlands Walk?

Yes. The closest is Awaroa/Godley Head Campsite, about 25 km away, and the track page lists more under Stay nearby. Every campsite shows its dog rules.

Hikes nearby

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

Liffey Stream Walk

EasyLincoln

2.7 km↑0 m0.5–1 hr★4.5 rating

Swim spotShadeGood with kids

Matuku Lakes Loop Track

EasyLincoln

2.1 km↑0 m0.5–1 hr★4.5 rating

Swim spotSealed underfootGood with kids

Kakaha Park Loop

EasyPrebbleton

1.0 km↑0 m0.5–1 hr

Sealed underfootGood with kids

Prebbleton Nature Park Walk

EasyPrebbleton

1.0 km↑0 m0.5–1 hr★3.8 rating

Good with kids