For well-equipped and experienced hikers.
Immerse yourself in the mountains, valleys and the absolute remoteness of Fiordland as you walk the Dusky Track.
Hikers can walk the Dusky Track in either direction, beginning in Lake Hauroko (below) or from Lake Manapouri. There is also an optional 2-day detour to Supper Cove.
Lake Hauroko > Halfway Hut
Take the ferry across Lake Hauroko to Hauroko Burn Hut. The walk takes in attractive views of the river as it crosses Hauroko and Gardner Burns before reaching Halfway Hut.
4 - 6 hours walking
Halfway Hut > Lake Roe Hut
Today's walk crosses the Hauroko Burn and climbs steeply above the tree line to Lake Roe Hut. Keep an eye open for rare native birds in this section.
3 - 5 hours walking
Lake Roe Hut > Loch Maree Hut
With spectacular views of Dusky Sound and the surrounding mountains, this section is a track highlight. Follow Lake Horizon through the Pleasant Range to Loch Maree.
5 - 7 hours walking
Loch Maree Hut > Kintail Hut
Today's walk follows the Seaforth River to Deadwood Creek and on to Kenneth Burn before climbing through the gorge to the outlet of Gair Loch.
6 - 8 hours walking
Kintail Hut > Upper Spey Hut,
Take in breath-taking views of Gair Loch, Tripod Hill and the Seaforth Valley before descending through tussock and alpine shrubland to Warren Burn and Upper Spey Hut.
5 - 7 hours walking
Upper Spey Hut > Wilmot Pass Road
Today's walk crosses a large swampy clearing before joining the river through beech and ribbonwood forest to the Dashwood Stream. From here it is a short walk to the Wilmot Pass Road.
4 - 5 hours walking
Track conditions often change. Be prepared by checking with the Department of Conservation before you go.
Alternative route
At Loch Maree Hut hikers the track splits and walkers can choose to include the 2-day return walk to Supper Cove.
Loch Maree Hut > Supper Cove Hut (return)
The track takes in Bishop Burn and Henry Burn, before climbing the slopes overlooking the Supper Cove.
6 - 8 hours walking
Accommodation
Getting there:
Walk features:
This walk is suitable for advanced walkers, expect to encounter tree falls, deep mud, tree roots and river crossings. After heavy rain some sections often become impassable.
