Entries for the '3-5 hours' 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 >>

Lake Rere is a fantastic and varied circular route starting from the Greenstone car park (12km from Kinloch).  Walk through bush, open farm land, beech forest and join the Greenstone track for the last leg.  The Lake Rere track offers ample opportunity for photography and bird watching. 

Taking the loop clockwise, cross the bridge and follow the marked route across Greenstone Station's open paddocks for an hour to the crystal clear waters at Elfin Bay.  A gentle climb through red beech forest eases before reaching picturesque Lake Rere (running water), a popular tourist destination in the late 19th century.  Take a picnic and lunch on the shores of the lake, take pictures of the mirror reflections or simply sit and listen to the calls of the Korimakos (Bell Birds), Piwakawakas (Fantails) and South Island Robins. Pockets of mountain beech and grassland lead you to a second bridge and a brief climb to join the Greenstone Track.

Time: 5 hours (loop)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

View track description on Department of Conservation website >>

There are approximately 4 km of wheelchair accessible tracks at the Paradise Trust. The Paradise Trust isn't very well sign posted so be on the lookout after passing Arcadia House on the left side of the road.  Look for a small turn off to the left with two postboxes.  The Paradise Trust is accessed via the driveway beyond the post box to the right.  Park near the information plaques and go for a wander around the property.

The first segment of the Routeburn Track makes an ideal day walk for those who are short on time.  The wide, well maintained easy graded track crosses several swing bridges, goes past bridal veil falls and over the Routeburn Gorge before opening up to vast grassy flats.  The trail forks at the end of the first segment with the fork to the right leading to Routeburn Flats Hut and the fork to the left continuing on to Routeburn Falls Hut.

Time: 3 - 5 hours
Difficulty: Easy

View track description at Department of Conservation website >>