Borland Road branches off Lake Monowai Road, about 7 km from the intersection with the Southern Scenic Highway. The road initially supported the high-voltage power line pylons connecting the underground Manapouri power station to the Comalco aluminium smelter at Bluff. Today, it also provides access to Fiordland National Park, Lake Manapouri, and several tracks, including a remote 4WD-only road to a campsite at South Arm and the Borland Nature Walk.
From the intersection with Lake Monowai Road, it is a short drive to Borland Lodge, which offers a range of basic accommodations below the power pylons. The Burnt Ridge Track to Lake Monowai starts at the Lodge. Alternatively, continue past the Lodge to the Borland Nature Walk, consisting of a short walk down to a swing bridge over the Borland Burn and a loop through beech forest.
At the start of the track, you will see the influence of children, with some lean-to huts made from fallen branches amongst the trees. After that, it is an easy stroll through mature beech forest, sometimes alongside the burn. The ground is covered by intensely green moss and colourful beech tree leaf litter, and information panels describe the flora and fauna present.
The walk also connects with the South Borland Track which follows the stream for several km, and climbs back up to Borland Road. Or you can continue on a tramping track to the North Borland Hut, a total of 12 km and 6 to 8 hours.
