11 October 2026
Mainly fine but the chance of a showers from late afternoon east of Alexandra. Northwesterlies for a time late morning and afternoon.
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1 / 4St Bathans area
Around Blue Lake Track
Walk around the man-made Blue Lake in St Bathans which in the 1860's was the deepest mine in the southern hemisphere.
Distance
3.6 km
Walking time
1 hr 30 min
Difficulty
Advanced
Dogs
On-lead only
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
No active alerts found. Conditions can still change, so check again before leaving.
Weather outlook
Central Otago forecast
Issued 10 Oct 2026, 11:01 pm
12 October 2026
Fine. Northwesterlies developing before dawn.
13 October 2026
Fine, then a few showers developing in the afternoon. Northerlies.
14 October 2026
Rain easing in the evening. Light winds.
15 October 2026
Occasional rain. Southerlies developing.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Around Blue Lake Track on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Around Blue Lake Track
This enjoyable short walk gives you the opportunity to explore some history as well as experience the fresh, Central Otago air. There are three main parts to the walk. From the carpark, there is a short, easy loop on the western side of the lake. This goes close to the lake shore and you get the chance to see the man-made lake up close. At the end of this first loop, there is a turn-off where you can take a left-hand turn and head towards the St Bathans domain and DOC campground. This path also allows an entrance to the walk for those staying at the campground. The longer walk heads up from here and loops around the whole lake. It usually takes over an hour. Care needs to be taken with children and those with reduced mobility but it is a good adventure for those who want more of a challenge. This longer loop is a more intrepid part of the track and is more suitable for those with some tramping experience. Some sections are scrambly and narrow. However it provides excellent wide views of this area.
Essential information for Around Blue Lake Track
The St Bathans lake was formed by mining activities in the late 1800s. Take warm clothing as it’s exposed, but also take sun projection gear as it’s exposed! The weather can change quickly. Public toilets are located at the carpark.
Huts and campsites
St Bathans Domain Campsite is a free basic campsite in Central Otago. With a quiet rural setting, it offers a great base from which to explore the Blue Lake Recreational Reserve and the historic township of St Bathans. For your safety, we recommend not camping under the trees at this campsite.
Getting there for Around Blue Lake Track
The Blue Lake walks are located about 45 minutes from Alexandra and 35 minutes from Ranfurly. From Alexandra, turn left at Becks towards Cambrians, then continue on until St Bathans. From Ranfurly, take a right turn at St Bathans Loop Road until you reach the township. The road is gravel along here. The car park is across the road from the Vulcan Hotel, but additional parking is located down the hill by the lake edge. There are areas in the small township to enjoy a picnic in fine weather. Use this location in Google Maps to find your way there.
Helpful resources
We encourage you to continue gaining the skills and knowledge required for a safe trip. The NZ Mountain Safety Council has lots of free resources and information you can use. These can be accessed via www.mountainsafety.org.nz . We recommend trying these online learning tools: Trip Planning Tramping / field Skills Basic Navigation River Safety Additionally, check out the range of helpful videos available from the NZ Mountain Safety Council YouTube channel
Dog access for Around Blue Lake Track
Dogs on a leash only.
Before you walk Around Blue Lake Track
Track information, access and weather can change. Confirm current alerts and land-manager information close to departure, tell someone your plans, and carry equipment appropriate for the route and conditions.