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Off-lead OKEasy

Skating Pond Loop

Nelson · Nelson-Tasman · Loop

12344.8 km632 m
↑ 33 m gain↓ 36 m descenthigh 632 msteepest 7 %
DISTANCE4.8 km
ASCENT33 m
DURATION1–1.5 hr
STEEPEST7 %
ROUTELoop
RATING · HIKERS 4.4 · 18
DOG EFFORT1.9 /5 paws
PARKING10 m away
DirectionsApple MapsForecast at the trailheadDownload GPXSend the start point to your phone
Nearest emergency vetNelson Vets - Saxton (after-hours on-call), Nelson~70 min drive · after-hours (nights+weekends)
03 544 5678
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 Skating Pond Loop

Skating Pond Loop is a loop of 4.8 km, near Nelson in Nelson-Tasman.

Expect easy going, with around 33 m of climb, pitching up to 7 % at its steepest, and takes about 1–1.5 hr to walk.

The track takes in lakeside stretches and big views. Dogs are allowed off the lead on this one. Hikers rate it 4.4 / 5 across 18 reviews.

Stay nearby

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

Stay & walk

Teetotal Campsite

0.0 km awayCampsite details →Stay & walk

Kawatiri Campsite

21.0 km awayCampsite details →
Quick answers

Frequently asked questions

Can my dog go off the lead on Skating Pond Loop?

Yes. Skating Pond Loop 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 Skating Pond Loop?

Skating Pond Loop is 4.8 km with roughly 33 m of climb and takes about 1–1.5 hr.

Is there water for my dog to swim on Skating Pond Loop?

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 Skating Pond Loop?

Yes. The closest is Teetotal Campsite, about 0 km away, and the track page lists more under Stay nearby. Every campsite shows its dog rules.

Where dogs are welcome in NZCamping with your dogGear checklist for dog hikes

Hikes nearby

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

Beebys Knob Route

HardSaint Arnaud
4.3 km↑716 m2–2.5 hr★4.0 rating
Shade

Kawatiri Historic Railway Walk

ModerateSaint Arnaud
1.6 km↑32 m0.5–1 hr★4.3 rating
Swim spotShadeGood with kids

More in Nelson-Tasman

Isel Park Walk

EasyNelson
1.4 km↑7 m0.5–1 hr★5.0 rating
Swim spotSealed underfootGood with kids

IV Line

EasyCODG
1.0 km↑7 m12m

See every dog-friendly track in Nelson-Tasman →

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