Sawpit Gully Trail

The Sawpit Gully Trail is a beautiful trail loop measuring 7.7 km located at Butler’s Green in the Arrowtown Village. It is a favourite walking destination for many natives and tourists visiting the South Island. The trail is a complete package consisting of a picturesque track, steep slopes, and the visitors even have to cross a few streams on their way.

The trek starts very conveniently from the car park near the Chinese Settlement. The summit can be taken up clockwise as well as the other way round. Starting it anticlockwise makes the track a little easier with the slopes being less steep while going up. The trek is very scenic and moves along the Arrow River at a few places. Upon approaching the Sawpit Gully, visitors can also click pictures of some remains of the gold mining era in the form of miner’s cottage and piles of mining stones. After a good hike, the view of Lake Hayes from atop the trail gives a soothing sensation to the eyes. It is advisable to carry some light snacks and abundant drinking water as there are no eateries or kiosks throughout the trail but ensure not to throw any waste anywhere along the track.