ROCKRIDGE WALK
Track Itinerary
Let’s talk details.
The track is 31 km of stunning High Country terrain with vistas that overwhelm. A tapestry of natural bush lines, rock formations, farmland, forestry, rolling hills, and steep topography unfolding over two neighbouring farms.
It’s the RockRidge all-inclusive experience.
Arrival Day
We will be expecting you at the Birchview Homestead anytime from 4.30pm. Our track manager will meet you at 6.00pm to go through the details for the next day so before then it is your time to relax and enjoy your surroundings.
Dinner will be in the fridge, ready to go when everyone arrives! There will be comprehensive instructions. We promise it will be easy and delicious!
Day One
The Birchview Homestead to Quartz Hill Quarters.
Degree of Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 13km, 6-7 hours with breaks
Elevation: 1,000 metres
Whether you’re a turtle or a hare, we encourage you to take your time over breakfast, enjoy each other’s company, and enjoy the surrounding space. 9.00am is a great time to put on the boots and head off.
Today you are climbing up to Snowy Peak and High Peak Summit, a towering 967m above sea level! Passing waterfalls and spring-fed creeks and an 80-million-year-old cave. Be in the moment, with bluffs to climb and vistas to the sea, mountain ranges, rivers, and lakes to absorb.
Snowy Peak is the perfect spot for your morning tea. The options are endless for lunch depending on the weather and your location when you feel the need to refuel.
The 360° views throughout the day will take your breath away, much like the 300m climb to Cooks Cliff. If this feels like its too much, there is a shortcut to circumvent this climb.
Once at the top, you will continue to the Copper Creek Watering Hole where you can refresh with a cold drink and a dip. The setting looks out over the vast Station.
Then there’s the option of a pick up from Copper Creek Watering Hole or an optional extra 5km gentle descent to Quartz Hill Quarters.
Glorious.
Day Two
Quartz Hill Quarters to The Birchview Homestead
Degree of Difficulty: Moderate
Half Day Distance: 10km, 3-4 hours
Full Day Distance: 18km, 6-8 hours
If time is an issue, adventurers have two distance options to consider on day two.
You can also choose to depart from the Quartz Hill Quarters on foot with a 5km uphill walk or get a ride and a personal farm tour and discuss RockRidge on the way with the track manager back to Copper Creek Watering Hole to start your walk.
The Half Day
Elevation: 225 metres
This 10km trek sees you entering one of the windiest and beautiful places on the range— not to be missed! The saying `hold onto your hats’ has never been more required.
Past the rocky outcrops, you head in the direction of Snowy Peak, descending into the valley through native bush, kowhai, black beech, and honeydew. Take a row on the lake, a seat by the waterfall and finally, take in the history of the hydroelectric system and power plant.
The Full Day
Elevation: 750 metres
For the slightly more intrepid, or those with a bit more time to explore, the long day offers abundant rewards!
You will be immersed in the valley as you head along the Rocky Ridge, down to the beautiful boundary steam with farmland on one side and beach forest on the other.
Highlights include getting up close to The Brothers, The Mole, Periscope Rock, and Hanging Falls. All with wondrous stories and captivating formations to surprise and delight.
Meeting the short day track, your descent follows the curvature of the hills, leading you down to meet the original Washpen Falls adventure walk track. Trekking down the valley through native bush, kowhai, black beech, and honeydew. Take a row on the lake, a seat by the waterfall, and finally, take in the history of the hydroelectric system and power plant.
The Finale
Arrive back for a last hurrah, afternoon tea, and a hot shower if you fancy. Bask in the euphoria of an adventure complete, connections solidified, and memories banked of the camaraderie that only the High Country affords.
