Paerau/Styx - Lake Onslow - Roxburgh Loop
Paerau via Dunstan Track returning Lake Onslow
An adventure ride best chosen in dry weather as most of the roads are unsealed. The route goes from Paerau (Styx) to Roxburgh via Lake Onslow. The ride affords spectacular views over the Teviot Valley with its fruit orchards.
The track winds its way through hills from the Upper Paerau Valley and down past Lake Onslow to Roxburgh. From here it is a short journey back on the main road (SH 8) to Alexandra. Numerous gold era sites are passed and relics are common. Lake Onslow is a lonely, windswept lake known as one of the better fishing spots in Central Otago. Once known as ‘Dismal Swamp’ it was created in the 1890’s by damming for a gold claim far below at Roxburgh. This Ladysmith Claim now has a walking track to guide you over a unique range of historic sites.
The Lake Onslow Road is a 4WD only track and in dry weather has a good surface. The whole route is scenic with a rugged, desolate landscape typical of Central Otago. This route is closed for the winter between early June and 30th September.
Paerau to Lake Onslow 44km
Lake Onslow to Roxburgh 39km
