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Location & access
DOC track reference point, not a verified trailhead, entrance or the whole route. Check the official route directions before travel.
Official location informationLocation source
DOC track reference point, not a verified trailhead, entrance or the whole route.
Reference point: -41.72755, 171.77505. WGS84 coordinates retained at the official service's returned precision; decimal resolution is not survey accuracy. Source positional accuracy is not specified.
DOC Maps walking and tramping reference point (WGS84), exact official-page GUID / Department of Conservation. Checked 2026-10-12.
Key facts
- Distance
- 8.4 km return via same track
- Walking time
- 5 hr 30 min return
- Track grade
- Advanced
- Location
- Denniston area
- Dog access
- No dogs. Other pets on conservation land rules.
Checked against official sources on 8 October 2026. Rules and conditions are set by Department of Conservation — confirm with them before you go.
Route overview
This track, also known as the Denniston bridle path, completed in 1884, makes a pleasant if steep bush walk.
This DOC directory entry covers Bridle Track in West Coast, within Denniston area. Where DOC groups several walks, times and grades refer to the listed options rather than a single continuous itinerary.
Distance, time and grade
- Distance: 8.4 km return via same track
- Walking time: 5 hr 30 min return
- DOC grade: Advanced
Access and alerts
Source checked 2026-10-08. This page is a dated snapshot, not a live track-status report. Check current DOC route information immediately before travelling. An absence of listed alerts does not establish that a route is open.
Dog access
No dogs. Other pets on conservation land rules.
Description
A journey that was the grind for the people of the late ninetieth and early twentieth centuries can be enjoyed for its bush views today.
Climbing from near sea level to 600 m altitude, the track is steep particularly towards the top. The track surface is uneven for most of the way. Ensure you wear sturdy footwear.
Be prepared, carry warm waterproof clothing and take something to eat and drink.
Getting there
Denniston is 18 km northeast of Westport. From Westport, follow SH67 north for 15 km. Turn right at Waimangaroa onto the road to Denniston.
The bottom of the track is signposted on Conns Creek Road behind Waimangaroa, the top end is signposted at the Denniston Brakehead.
Know before you go
Some sections of the track are exposed with creek crossings and small reroutes. There are slippery rocks and a narrow track on a steep slope. Follow the track markers and all signage in place.
Creeks are subject to sudden high flows.
Suitable footwear, experience and care is required.
Safety and hazards
Historic structures: Denniston is a heritage area with historic structures and closed mines. Follow all safety signs, keep children close and watch your step.
History and culture
Aside from the incline, which was used for the transportation of coal, the bridle path, completed in 1884, was the only means of access to Denniston. Travel along this route was either by horse, or on foot.
Sources and reuse
Route descriptions and practical information reproduced from the Department of Conservation, Crown copyright, under CC BY 4.0, subject to DOC's copyright policy. Formatting has been adapted, including flattening page sections; follow the original DOC page for maps, section-specific layout, current notices and linked documents. Outdoor Next is independent and is not endorsed by DOC.
The accompanying photograph is a licensed general hiking illustration, not a photograph of this route.
