Ewe Range Track : Walking Guide, Time & Access

Route overview

The Ewe Range Track provides walking access to the northern end of Oteake Conservation Park.

This DOC directory entry covers **Ewe Range Track ** in Otago, within Oteake Conservation Park. Where DOC groups several walks, times and grades refer to the listed options rather than a single continuous itinerary.

Distance, time and grade

• Distance: Not confirmed on the checked DOC page; see individual route sections
• Walking time: 3 hr
• 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.

• Possum control work in Oteake Conservation Park; First published on 6 June 2025. Last reviewed on 29 June 2026.

Dog access

No dogs. Other pets on conservation land rules.

Description

From Broken Hut Road carpark, follow the DOC markers to reach a well formed 4WD track. It is a steep climb up this track to reach the top of the Ewe Range where there are striking views towards Lake Ōhau and the Ahuriri valley. The majority of the track is a public access easement through private farmland.

From the saddle this track provides access for experienced trampers and, in winter, backcountry skiers to explore the Hawkdun Range.

Getting there

Turn down Broken Hut Road, 1 km south of Omarama. This road turns into a gravel surface so drive carefully. At the road end there is a formed car park and interpretation panel. Walk from the car park back out to Broken Hut Road to the DOC sign for Ewe Range Track.

Know before you go

There may be avalanche danger

Avalanches usually occur from May to November in Oteake Conservation Park. There can also be avalanches outside this period, if there is still snow coverage.

If you are going into avalanche terrain, you need to take precautions.

• You must have the relevant avalanche skills and training.

• Go with a buddy. Both of you should carry and know how to use an avalanche transceiver, a snow shovel and a probe.

• Check the ATES rating and the New Zealand Avalanche Advisory.

Be avalanche alert in Wakatipu, Wānaka and Central Otago

New Zealand Avalanche Advisory

Map: NZTopo50 CA15 Omarama

Private property and permissions

This track crosses private land. There is no camping until the conservation area boundary.

Respect the landowner's livestock and property:

• Stay on the marked track until you reach the conservation land

• Leave gates as you find them

• Use stiles where provided

• Keep your distance from livestock.

Dogs

You need permission from the Makarora River Ranch to take your dog into Hāwea Conservation Park using Boundary Creek Track. Email makaroraranch@gmail.com at least 24 hours in advance of your visit to request permission. You must provide a valid worming certificate to ensure your dog is free from hydatids and sheep measles.

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.