Symes Road is one of many amazing adventure tracks in and around the Old Man Range and runs from Fruitlands, 15.7km South of Alexandra on SH8 up to the natural rock formation called the Obelisk.
The Obelisk is 1696 metres above sea level and very exposed so weather conditions, temperature, and visibility can change quickly. Riders should ensure they are carrying gear suitable for cold and wet conditions, even in mid summer if it’s warm and dry at Fruitlands.
Symes Road and the Obelisk are usually only accessible during summer dry weather. During winter the roads are usually impassable due to snow and hence closed and even during summer months rain can make the tracks slippery and DOC may close the road. The DOC office in Alexandra can advise on current road conditions.
Access further into the Old Man Range vis Symes Road is possible but on this day the wind was too strong to continue. If you have been further and have a GPS track send it in to us to add to this page.
Contributed by: @ross-bowden
Track type: Gravel Road
Track composition: Rough, Loose, Steep
Slippery when wet?: No
Suitable for bikes <650cc? Intermediate
Suitable for bikes >650cc? Intermediate
River crossings? No
Easy to carry on over to the Old Woman range from there and onto the Nevis.Or turn left onto Shingle Creek road or Waikia bush road.sorry old school don’t use GPS.