Entries for the 'Moderate' Category

The Glacier Burn track is the closest day walk from Kinloch (3km away) and can be accessed without a vehicle.  This steep track climbs straight up the mountains through the beech forest behind the lodge.  Follow the creek until you see the marker for the crossing.  You'll see old saw-milling snig lines near the start of the track. After approximately two hours, you will arrive in Glacier Basin.  If you follow the creek further up you'll be treated to views of the Humboldt Mountains. This challenging day walk offers excellent photo opportunities and the chance to view native bird life.

Do not go above the bushline in winter or spring as the area is prone to avalanches.

Time: 3+ hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

View track description on the Department of Conservation website >>

A steep climb takes you to the Invincible Gold Mine with good views of the Rees Valley and Mount Earnslaw.  Along the track you can see the remains of the water wheel and a unique set of seven berdans - large, revolving cast iron bowls in which the ore was ground.  The Gold Extractor is about 5 minutes from the start of the Invincible Gold Mine track.  The track was build by miners in the early 1880s.

What to expect on a walking track:

• Easy to moderate walking from a few minutes to a day
• Track is mostly well formed, some sections may be steep, rough or muddy
• Suitable for people with low to moderate fitness and abilities
• Clearly sign posted. Stream and river crossings are bridged
• Walking shoes or light tramping/hiking boots required

Time: 2 - 2.5 hours
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

 Visit the track description on the Department of Conservation website >>

Mt. Alfred is a pleasant day walk affording spectacular views of the Dart River Valley.  The track is steep, but three quarters of the climb follows a good zig zag track.  After this, a marked route can be followed as far as the bushline. Above the bushline this track is steep and exposed. This track is not recommended for young children.  The approach is on the Western (Dart) side of the peak - look for small car park area unmarked on the lef hand side of the Glenorchy to Routeburn road. 

NOTE: Permission is required from Earnslaw Station for accessing the upper part of Mt Alfred - once you leave the bushline. Please minimise disturbance to stock.

Time:  4 - 8 hours
Difficulty:  Moderate to Challenging

View track description on Department of Conservation website >>

Accessible by boat charter from Kinloch or Glenorchy or by kayak trip.  A rodent free island where it is possible to see the rare and endangered Mohua and Weka.

Time: Half Day
Difficulty: Moderate

Between the Routeburn Flats Hut and the Routeburn Falls Hut is a significant gain in elevation.  This steady climb through the beech forest crosses 2 swing bridges and offers spectacular views of the vallely below.  In 1994, heavy rain created a slip which washed awya part of the original track.  Take care when crossing the slip, particularly after heavy rain.  The bridge at Emily Creek is the midway point of this section of the track.  If trekking early or late in the season, beware of avalanches that have been know to fall as far as the bridge.  Be sure to visit the waterfall this hut was named for - approximately 15 min walk past the hut.

Time: 5 - 7 hours return
Difficulty: Moderate

View track description on Department of Conservation website >>