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Key facts
- Distance
- Not confirmed on the checked DOC page; see individual route sections
- Walking time
- 3-4 hr
- Track grade
- Advanced
- Location
- Flat Top Hill Conservation Area
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 is a popular track for running and mountain biking. It offers excellent views of the Old Man Range – Kopuwai.
This DOC directory entry covers Purple Haze Track in Otago, within Flat Top Hill Conservation 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: Not confirmed on the checked DOC page; see individual route sections
- Walking time: 3-4 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.
Description
This loop track climbs to the summit ridge in a series of 33 well-graded switchbacks. It offers great views into the Clutha River and Butchers Dam before descending in more switchbacks to the dam. There are grade 5 biking options for those looking for challenging step-downs.
Note there are rock gaps – scout these sections before riding them. Some sections require walking your bike. Do not take shortcuts on the descent as this causes erosion
Map and elevation profile of track on Trailforks website.
Mountain biking
Mountain Bikers of Alexandra (MOA) has developed mountain biking trails in this area in partnership with DOC. These trails are purpose-built bike trails marked on the ground with blue markers.
Getting there
Access to Flat Top Hill Conservation Area is via an easement over private land. Respect private property by keeping dogs on leashes until you reach the conservation area.
Travel south from Alexandra for 6 km along State Highway 8. Turn left into the Flat Top Hill carpark near Butchers Dam.
Purple Haze Track is 10 km from the Flat Top Hill carpark via Butchers Dam Loop Track and Basin View Tramping Track.
Know before you go
This is a hot dry very exposed area, take water, a sunhat and wind protection. There is a toilet along the Butchers Dam Loop Track.
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.
