The track is named after local marathon runner Derek Turnbull, who regularly trained here.

It has two entrances: from Forest Hill Crossing Road or Pettigrew Road, the latter being closest to Invercargill. 

Forest Hill is a feeding ground for native birds which fly in daily searching for nectar and berries, and the track starts through native bush filled with tūī and pīwakawaka.

It’s a fairly steep uphill climb from Forest Hill Crossing, ascending 390m in a little over 1km. 

It’s gentler from Pettigrew Road, and this is a better place to start if you have children or want a more relaxing day hike. There are toilets and a grassed area here, so this entrance is also better for relaxing after the walk, maybe with a picnic lunch.

From Pettigrew Road there’s a gradual uphill climb to the west and east before turning north. After 2.5km, a junction leads to the west-facing lookout at Pt207, from where the Southland countryside stretches to the horizon.

The track continues north along the crest of Forest Hill through groups of large moss-covered rocks that flank the path. This stretch has a gentle rolling gradient with the trail repeatedly climbing above and dipping below the 200m contour. 

Near the northern end there’s another junction. Turn right to walk the 1km Loop Track that leads to the east-facing lookout at the trail’s 274m highpoint.  

Back at the intersection, the trail descends for about 700m and ends at Forest Hill Road. On the way, a short side track leads to a cave where you may see wētā.

If transport hasn’t been arranged, return the way you came.

Dogs are allowed on the track, provided they are kept on a leash.