A DOC sign reading "Rangitane Scenic Reserve" marks the start of a short track down to the Kawhatau river, bypassing a section of the river from the Rangitane Road-Upper Kawhatau Road bridge.

Access further up the road directly to Kawhatu Base is not possible. The farmer/houses at the end of the road does not have access either, it's another very-private property owner further along who has installed a locked gate, and organises private access for themselves and other parties.