Butcher's Dam
Name |
Butcher's Dam |
Location |
Alexandra |
Co-ordinates |
1312969 4978444 |
Alternative co-ordinates |
|
Configuration |
Network |
Distance |
17 km |
Status |
Off-leash |
Grade |
Moderate |
Access |
Car park on north side of dam, off SH8, opposite junction with Conroys Road, ca 5 km south of Alexandra |
Description |
A great network of walks around Butcher's Dam and up onto Flat Top Hill, giving excellent views across the rugged scenery of Otago. For a short walk, take the Butcher's Dam loop. For a longer loop and to get onto the higher land, take the Basin View tramping track. |
Connecting tracks |
Value |
Further information |
The Alexandra area is replete with great dog-friendly walks (as well as some that are not so friendly). One of the best locations to head for, however, is undoubtedly Butcher's Dam, a few kilometres south of the town, on SH8. The dam itself is a lovely and interesting spot, with good parking facilities, and lots of waterfowl to watch. But from the rest area a huge network of tracks spreads out, offering short loop-walks (with a wealth of information boards telling you about the local landscape, wildlife and history), longer loops and side-tracks that run up into the craggy flanks of Flat Top Hill, and even longer routes that take you into the Clutha Gorge or connect you with the long-distance cycle/walkway to Roxburgh and beyond.
For an easy, introductory walk, cross the dam and follow the 1 hour Butcher's Dam loop walk. For a more demanding walk, take the branch up to Flat Top Hill (2km each way). Or, if you're adventurous, continue over the top of the hill and take one of the winding tracks down into the deep Clutha Gorge.
For an easy, introductory walk, cross the dam and follow the 1 hour Butcher's Dam loop walk. For a more demanding walk, take the branch up to Flat Top Hill (2km each way). Or, if you're adventurous, continue over the top of the hill and take one of the winding tracks down into the deep Clutha Gorge.
Hover on the map to zoom in