Coronet Face Water Race Track

Overview

A 6 km one‑way, dual‑use singletrack cut into the face of Coronet Peak, this historic water‑race traverse serves up constant views over the Whakatipu Basin. It’s graded around easy/intermediate (roughly Grade 2–3), but don’t underestimate it: the bench is narrow in places with exposure on the outer edge, tight corners, and a handful of small stream crossings. Plan around 45–120 minutes one way depending on direction and stops. Length is 6 km (one way), not including any connectors you use to get to or from the track.

Route options

Most riders drop in from Coronet Peak Road via the Morning Glory MTB trail to meet the Water Race, turn left, and traverse to Bush Creek Saddle. From there, either continue down the Bush Creek Track to Arrowtown (still intermediate with a few steep pinches and tight corners) or retrace your line back along the Water Race to Coronet Peak Road. You can also climb up from Arrowtown via Bush Creek to the saddle and traverse out to Coronet Peak Road if you prefer to earn the views.

What you’ll see

You’re literally riding a slice of gold‑rush history: the water race was built in the 1860s to carry water for sluicing at Arthur’s Point, and remnants of that era still pepper the hillsides. The trail threads tussock meadows, pockets of remnant beech forest, and beneath schist bluffs—classic Otago geology that explains the narrow, exposed bench and rocky corners. Views stretch across the Whakatipu Basin and surrounding ranges.

Trail character and conditions

Expect variable surfaces—mud, rock, and roots—and those small creek crossings can run higher after heavy rain. The track is shared two‑way by walkers, runners, and riders. It narrows near Bush Creek Saddle and there are exposed corners where a cool head and controlled speed matter; walk sections if you’re unsure or riding with kids. Alpine weather can flip from heat to wind, cold, or even snow, and the track can suffer slips or flood damage after storms.

Best time to go

This track generally closes for winter (May–October). Aim for late spring through autumn in settled weather—November to April is the sweet spot. Start early for calmer winds and softer light across the basin, or ride late afternoon for golden tussock tones. Skip it right after big rain when streams rise and the surface is greasy.

Who will love it (and who won’t)

If you like historic trails with real exposure and big views, this is a gem and a classy link toward Arrowtown. If you’re uncomfortable with heights or managing speed on narrow, off‑camber corners, it can feel committing. For a much bigger mission, the 50 km Coronet Loop (mostly Grade 3, 4–8 hours by bike) uses the Water Race as a section and dives deeper into backcountry scenery and mining relics.