304 Cowans Hill

304) Cowan's Hill - 16th March 2020
Return Distance 5.9km, Max Elevation 770m, Climb 50m, Time 1.75hr, Level - Easy - Pops
Co-ordinates: -44.004870, 170.481880
My Blog:
The local maps were confusing and contradictory, so I hope this description will help you get around the loop and not travel the extra couple of km along the lake shore that I did!
I quite enjoyed this walk, once I was on the right track with lots of interesting points along the way.
Short Description:
The track passes the Church of the Good Shepherd and Dog Statue, along the shoreline, before heading along the edge of an exotic forest to open hillside tussock country and small tarns where wetland birds stop to feed, before heading back down to the Tekapo River through a plantation.
Getting There:
Park in the Lake Tekapo village centre and walk down to the footbridge across Tekapo River, where the walk begins.
Maps:
Lake Tekapo Town Walking Tracks
Route/Trail Notes:
The path goes down and around the back of the Church of the Good Shepherd and Dog Statue and leads you out along the lakeshore towards Pines Beach. Continue to follow the shoreline to the far end of the Dog Park, where you follow its fence line up to your right and out along the camping ground exit road. Cross directly over Lilybank Road and for the first time you will see a small red sign saying 'Cowans Walkway', follow the track up along the forest edge, across SH8 and to your left up and then right through the open hillside to the Lions seat at the top.
Carry on along the pathway that will take you down the hill through a plantation to the river's edge, where you turn right along the back of the houses to cross SH8 at the road bridge and back down to the start.
There are a number of styles to cross along the way.
Permits/Costs:
None.
Other References/Comments:
As with most South Island towns, there are always numerous tracks in and around the area. In this case most notably are Mount John and Sawdon Station Walk.