Overview
Section 2 
The Trail continues along a quiet country road that follows the eastern shore of Lake Pukaki, passing the Tekapo B power station [18km]. Riders will enjoy outstanding vistas across Lake Pukaki towards the Southern Alps. A wide range of native plants grow along the lake edge including kowhai and flax, as well as exotic species such as larch and pines.
The off-road trail starts at the bottom of Hayman Road [23km] and follows the Lake Pukaki shoreline. With Aoraki/ Mt Cook as a backdrop, the trail passes over the Pukaki dam, taking you to the car park at Lake Pukaki Visitor Centre [31km]. You then cross the highway and follow the Trail across Pukaki Flats – an expansive area of dry grasslands that are characteristic of the Mackenzie landscape. This takes you to the town of Twizel. Take care crossing the State Highway.
The vivid lake colour is due to the glacial flour suspended in the water.
Highlights Include
- Lake Pukaki & Aoraki Mt Cook Views
- Links with Te Araroa Trail
- Pukaki Flats
- Ruatanewha Conservation Park
- Scenic Flights available from and Pukaki (Twizel) Airport
- Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve - Stargazing
- Mountain Bike Trails
- Pukaki Kettle Holes,
- Dusky Trail,
- Twizel River Trail,
- Baikie Hut,
- Darts Bush Stream
- Mountains
- Southern Alps,
- Benmore Range,
- Ben Ohau Range
- Waitaki Hydro electric Power Scheme
- Tekapo B Power Station
- Pukaki Dam & Spillway
Section Map
![Section 2: Braemar Road to Twizel [41km]](/library/general/section_maps/maps%20along-02.jpg)
