Is the road to Mount Dobson unpaved?
New Zealand, oceania
14.8 km
1,748 m
moderate
Year-round
Dobo, as the locals call it, is a must-do if you're in the Mackenzie region of New Zealand's South Island. This totally unpaved access road winds its way up to the Mount Dobson ski resort, perched at a lofty 1,748m (5,734 ft). It's one of the highest roads around, and surprisingly smooth for an alpine track.
Starting from the main Fairlie-Tekapo Road, the 14.8 km (9.19 miles) climb gains a whopping 1,292 meters in elevation – that's an average grade of 8.72%! Most vehicles can handle it, even campervans and small cars. Just be prepared for some bends, blind corners and changeable weather. Snow chains are a must.
But trust me, the drive is worth it! At the top, you'll find plenty of parking and views that'll blow your mind. Picture this: sweeping vistas over Lakes Tekapo and Pukaki, with the majestic Mt Cook and Mt Tasman (New Zealand's highest peaks) in the distance. Seriously, bring your camera – you'll want to capture this remarkable road trip!
Road Details
- Country
- New Zealand
- Continent
- oceania
- Length
- 14.8 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,748 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
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