Otago Dam Track: Walking Guide, Time & Access

Route overview

Follow the track to an old water race and visit the historic Otago Dam.

This DOC directory entry covers Otago Dam Track in Otago, within Gabriels Gully Historic Reserve. Where DOC groups several walks, times and grades refer to the listed options rather than a single continuous itinerary.

Distance, time and grade

• Distance: 4 km return via same track
• Walking time: 2 hours 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.

• Foreshore of Greys Dam Amenity area closed; First published on 5 March 2026. Last reviewed on 6 October 2026.

Seasonal restrictions

Do not enter the track during or after periods of heavy rainfall. High rainfall increases the risk of Otago Dam failing and exposing sections of the track to flash flooding. Check the weather forecast before you go. Look out for dirty water or unusual sounds like roaring water or trees breaking when walking the track.

Dog access

Dogs on a leash only. Other pets on conservation land rules.

Description

Flash flood hazard

Otago Dam could fail during or after periods of high rainfall and during an earthquake. Do not use the track during or after periods of high rainfall as the risk of the dam failing will be higher.

The track crosses the creek in multiple places and is exposed to flash flooding. Onsite signage identifies the flood zone areas, move quickly through these areas.

Look out for dirty water or unusual sounds like roaring water or trees breaking when walking the track.

Move to higher ground immediately if you notice any signs of a flash flood.

Check the weather forecast before you go.

The Otago Dam Track begins at the western edge of Greys Dam. The track is flat for a short section. It then climbs steeply through beech forest and pine trees to reach Otago Dam.

This track requires a good level of fitness and sturdy footwear. There are several creek crossings, and the track is a steep climb on rough terrain and can be muddy in some places.

Gabriels Gully interpretation walk is an easier alternative that has interpretation panels, which tells the story of the gold mining history in Gabriels Gully. Gabriels Gully interpretation walking track starts from the Gabriels Gully car park which is accessed via a turnoff on the way to Greys Dam.

Getting there

The Otago Dam Track begins at Greys Dam, 5 km from the township of Lawrence. Take Gabriels Gully Road from Lawrence and drive or ride past the turn off to Gabriels Gully car park to reach Greys Dam.

Know before you go

• There are no toilets on site, the closest toilets are in Lawrence township.

• There is a picnic table at the start of the track in the Greys Dam Amenity Area.

• Your safety is your responsibility. Stay safe in the outdoors by following the Land Safety Code.

Flash flood hazard

Do not use this track during or after periods of heavy rainfall and during an earthquake. High rainfall increases the risk of the Otago Dam bursting and exposing sections of the track to flash flooding.

Flood prone sections of the track are clearly marked with signage. Avoid lingering in these areas and keep to the marked track.

Check the weather forecast before you go.

Macrocarpa trees

There are large trees within Gabriels Gully Historic Reserve and at the start of the track within the Greys Dam Amenity Area. Do not park under them and avoid them during high winds.

Stay safe when crossing rivers and streams

If you plan to cross unbridged rivers or side streams, know how to cross safely and be prepared for if you cannot cross.

Do not cross if the river or stream is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop. If in doubt, stay out.

How to cross rivers safely

NIWA river flow forecasts: View a video of national followed by regional river flows

Nature and conservation

NZ Falcons/kārearea can be seen in the area. Between November and February when they are nesting they can become defensive of their young and perform dive bombs. If this happens, move away until the attack stops. Don't try to strike a falcon as you are likely to injure it and place the falcon chicks in danger.

History and culture

More information about the Gabriels Gully Historic Reserve.

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.