The Naseby Forest Recreation Area is a 500ha, privately owned playground that provides wonderful opportunities for walkers and bikers in Central Otago. Entry is free and open, but subject to fire season or logging operation closure. Please respect all signage and follow all instructions and directions from the Ernslaw One Ltd. Owners. This exotic forest area covers what was the sluiced ground of the Naseby goldfield. Planting began in 1900 from which Douglas fir, larch, and Corsican pine have self seeded to create the forest you see today. It has an open forest floor but there are many tracks (mostly flat, undulating, or following natural contours) that make for hours of exploration. Walking or biking are the only two activities allowed, but the area is adjacent to Naseby township, swimming dams, skating rink, fishing, and golf. There are Central Otago cycle trails here for all abilities, ranging from the easy water race tracks to intermediate and advanced single track trails. A popular introduction or family route is to follow the Mount Ida Water Race. Begun in 1873, this government owned race starts many kilometres away in the Manuherikia River. It winds its way along the Hawkdun Range, picking up more and more water from streams as it flows towards Naseby. Originally to feed the gold sluices, it now provides much needed irrigation to farmers in the upper Maniototo area. The track follows the course of the race through the forest and provides a flat, easy ride upstream or downstream from the Naseby swimming dam. The Water Race track does have the best surface and is always a great forest ride, no matter what the weather. There are many other rides in the forest to choose from. For best information pick up a trail map from an information centre (Naseby, Ranfurly, Alexandra, etc.) or one of the local Naseby hotels. Head up to the swimming dam above Naseby township to start all rides. Care should be taken on blind corners for walkers and joggers.