Off-lead OKExpert
Potts Hut via Potts River Car Park
Ashburton · Canterbury · Out & Back
↑ 1772 m gain↓ 1772 m descenthigh 1531 msteepest 25 %
DISTANCE44.6 km
ASCENT1,772 m
DURATION15–16.5 hr
STEEPEST25 %
ROUTEOut & Back
RATING · HIKERS 3.9 · 4
DOG EFFORT4.7 /5 paws
Nearest emergency vetChristchurch After Hours Veterinary Centre, Christchurch
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 swimRiver swim spotsOpen track, carry water for the dogUsually a quiet trackBest in summer; snow and ice at altitude in winter
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.
A multi-day expedition, not an afternoon walk. Plan for huts, weather and full backcountry gear.
About Potts Hut via Potts River Car Park
Potts Hut via Potts River Car Park is an out-and-back of 44.6 km, near Ashburton in Canterbury.
Expect expert going, with around 1,772 m of climb, pitching up to 25 % at its steepest, and takes about 15–16.5 hr to walk.
Walkers come for lakeside stretches, river frontage, and big views. Dogs are allowed off the lead on this one. Hikers rate it 3.9 / 5 across 4 reviews.