Hump Ridge Track

Hump Ridge Track

The Hump Ridge Track overlooking Te Waewae Bay and Bluecliffs Beach, where Hector’s dolphins and Southern right whales are sometimes seen, is a 3 day/2 night circuit offering spectacular views over the south coast and inland lakes.

The highlight for most is the loop track at the top of the Hump Ridge range which winds around soaring limestone tors and offers panoramic views of south-west Fiordland, the Southern Ocean, and Stewart Island.

This circuit track has all the qualities of a Great Walk and more. The first day leads hikers from sea-level up through native forest to the Hump Ridge, providing sweeping 360° views of the south coast far below and the peaks of the Southern Alps marching northward.

From the Hump Ridge, the track descends almost back to sea-level, and then traverses along old tram lines and across mighty wooden viaducts to the historic Port Craig. A bush and beach track following Te Waewae Bay completes the circuit on the third day.

Developed and managed by the Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track Charitable Trust, it is the only walking track in southern Fiordland that offers such comfortable facilities to independent trampers. Trampers also have the option to have themselves or their packs flown to the lodges by helicopter and enjoy a hot shower and comfortable bed.

Bookings :

Contact the Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track office for full accommodation details and track description Hump Ridge Track Website

Track description:

Day 1: Rarakau car park to Okaka Lodge (9 hours, 19 kilometres)
Day 2: Okaka Lodge to Port Craig Lodge (9 hours, 19 kilometres)
Day 3: Port Craig Lodge to Rarakau car park (7 hours, 20 kilometres)

Access:

From Tuatapere, drive approximately 28 kilometres via Papatotara Road, following the signs to Bluecliffs Beach and the Rarakau car park (7 kilometres of this road are unsealed).