Main Road Bridge - Cowan’s Hill Carpark

From the east end of the Main Road Bridge the track follows the terrace edge of the Tekapo River towards the plantation behind the township. It climbs slightly before crossing the Refuse Tip Road and entering the forest. A poled track continues through the trees then out into open country behind. This track follows the 4WD track to a high point before descending to cross a firebreak out on the open tussock grasslands of the Lake Tekapo Scientific Reserve. Crossing a stile near this point it is an easy walk to the Cowan’s Hill carpark, where you may continue the Pines Beach Walk. This section has wonderful views of Lake Tekapo, Motuariki Island and the surrounding mountains. The reserve also gives an appreciation of the glacial features and the tarns and wetlands of this mainly dry area.