This network of tracks is accessed from Awa Awa Rata Reserve at the end of McLennans Bush Road. 

Ridge, Alder and Opuke tracks are easy and well-formed and can be used to link up with Scotts Saddle Track higher up. All variations are signposted.

Alder Track (named after a plantation of alders) begins on the south side of the reserve behind the toilets and is a gentle 20min climb to Ridge Track. From there, turn right and head north along the ridge, through European larch and mountain beech tawhai rauriki forest, past Pt800 to the junction with Scotts Saddle Track – about 45min.

At the junction it’s decision time. Return to the reserve car park or continue part or all of the way to Scotts Saddle. It’s popular to climb steeply for another 45min to a flat knob just above the bushline, where, 400m south of Pt1058, are panoramic views of the Canterbury Plains and a wooden seat to rest on.

Beyond here, in winter, the track may be under snow. The route is poled and, in good visibility, the ridge itself aids navigation. However, this is alpine terrain. A mistake in bad weather could have serious consequences. Post-holing in deep snow is much slower than walking on firm ground, so allow plenty of time to reach the saddle. Walking poles are useful in firmer conditions, and snow shoes are a fun option for fresh snow.

From the seat the track heads north for about 600m to a small saddle and a steep climb through a rocky gully. It continues for 800m along a broad ridge, through alpine herb fields, including snow tussock wī kura, harakeke and dracophyllum, and meets a remnant of the original road. After 700m this old road reaches the saddle and there’s an option of an easy exit via the Mt Hutt Ski Area access road.

In winter it could take over 90min from the seat viewpoint to the junction with the ski road at Scotts Saddle, and the same again on the descent, adding as much as three hours to a return trip to the saddle from the car park.