Dusky Track

The pinnacle of New Zealand's alpine walking tracks; the Dusky Track offers an opportunity for fit experienced trampers to explore Fiordland back country wilderness at it's rawest.

Here is an opportunity to explore one of New Zealand's most daunting tracks the Dusky Track. This is not for the faint hearted. One trip we had half a metre of rain and got stuck in the Loch Maree Hut for two days when the lake level rose 4 metres over night. We hit snow on the tops and then had a near vertical descent clambering down rocks and tree roots hand over hand for four hours… in the pouring rain. These kind of experiences reinforce the raw nature of the Fiordland wilderness.

The trip starts in Tuatapere. We boat across Lake Hauroko the deepest Lake in New Zealand, passing the remains of a Maori princess called the Princess of the Lake resting in the cleft of a rock on Mary Island.

The track then proceeds up the Hauroko Burn to the Lake Roe Hut set beautifully amongst massive granite outcrops, travels along the tops of the Pleasant Range with spectacular views of Dusky Sound and the surrounding mountains before descending steeply to Loch Maree.

The last section travels along the Seaforth River to Supper Cove in Dusky Sound. Settlers here used to cover themselves in kerosene to escape the wrath of Fiordland's biggest sandflies. Returning by helicopter Fto civilisation and a good hot bath. Believe me, you will have earned it.

A very high level of fitness is required.

Departure Dates

Departures for the Dusky Track are on demand with a minimum of three and maximum of six people. It is wise to have a spare day (or 2) and travel insurance in case of inclement weather and delay.

Prices

Your Guided Walk package includes 5 nights accommodation on the trail in public DoC huts, all meals, helicopter ride from Tuatapere to Supper Cove across the Southern Alps, boat trip across Lake Hauroko from the end of the track, concession and guiding fees, all equipment and maps.

NZ$3,295

Per person including GST
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Minimum of three people. We do not recommend the track for children under 15. Prices are valid to 1 November 2023. Please check our booking conditions.

Further Information

Accommodation

On the trail we stay in public DOC huts. These range from 10 to 12 person huts with open design bunks. They have a fire, running cold water and outside toilets.

You will be asked to carry your own sleeping bags, we have some light weight versions available for loan. We have supply drops at a hut along the way but you may be asked to assist with carrying some light food supplies and your own eating equipment.

All crockery and cooking equipment are provided.

Getting There

Te Anau has daily shuttle services from Queenstown and Invercargill. We are happy to help with transport arrangements.

On the completion of your walk we can arrange a same day shuttle to Te Anau and Queenstown. If you require transport to Invercargill you will need to stay an extra night in Tuatapere with Scenic Shuttles departing at 9.00am.

Shuttles to and from Te Anau are not included in the package. Feel free to contact us to help arrange transfers from other locations.

Fitness Level

A high level of fitness is required. To enjoy your walk you need to be able to walk for 6 – 8 hours over 11 – 16km ( 7 - 10 miles ) each day. We go up and down some serious hills and over high passes. The track can be very wet and very muddy at times. At other times it is just wet and muddy.

Weather

Is unpredictable. Extreme conditions can develop at any time. Be prepared for cold and wet weather and have warm waterproof equipment. It makes it even nicer when it is warm and sunny.

Equipment

We will provide all food, snacks, cooking and kitchen equipment and maps. You provide and carry a backpack, personal and hiking equipment. We have packs and wet weather gear available if required but please advise in advance.

What to Bring

A good pair of comfortable walking boots is essential. The walking is a mixture of bush walking, alpine walking, steep descent, mud and quite possibly wading rivers. Some people like to use gaiters and or walking sticks. You will need to carry only your own personal belongings, your sleeping bag and eating utensils during the day. For our comprehensive list of things to bring click here.