Boot Hill offers a series of short beginner and intermediate options
To Get to Boot Hill
Ride up Tarbert St towards Omakau, after the Elim Church, turn left and ride across the grass to find the trail start (signposted with map of area). The main loop is a dual direction trail that winds up on to the terrace above Alexandra with great views over the township.
Mountain Bikers of Alexandra (MOA) has developed mountain biking trails in partnership with the Department of Conservation. These trails are purpose-built bike trails marked on the ground with blue markers.
Please note all these tracks are dual use for bikers and walkers except the Butcher’s Dam Loop Track that is designated for walkers alone. Mountain bikers please follow the mountain bike care code: https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/know-before-you-go/care-codes/mountain-bikers-code/
Purple Haze Loop Grade 3/4 with some optional Grade 5 sections, 10km
This loop track runs along the top of Flat Top Hill offering great views into the Clutha River and Butchers Dam before descending in a series of switchbacks to the dam (commonly called Black & Blue). There are grade 5 options for those looking for challenging step downs and rock gaps – scouting before riding these sections is recommended. Some sections will require walking your bike.
Sphinx Rock 5km Grade 4 intermediate, 5km
This is a steep descent off Purple Haze Track to the Roxburgh Gorge Trail. This purpose-built mountain bike track is a better alternative for bikers than the Roxburgh Faces Tramping
Track as an access track to the Roxburgh Gorge Trail. The lower section has a series of nicely built flowy berms.
Rock of Doom Grade 6 expert, 1.5km
This extremely steep downhill track branches off the far northern end of Purple Haze Track and finishes at the Roxburgh Gorge Trail. With big rock features, drops and exposed
riding this trail is for expert riders only.
Getting there:
Flat Top Hill is 6 km south of Alexandra, off SH 8 by Butchers Dam. Access to Flat Top Hill Conservation Area is via an easement over private land and consent from the Last Chance Irrigation Company to use the dam crest. Respect the adjoining private property. Dogs must remain on a leash until in the Conservation Area. Foot and mountain biking only.
From the Roxburgh Gorge Trail. Ride the Roxburgh Gorge Trail from Alexandra, and then access the conservation area by using the haul road, or Sphinx Track.