Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
peak includes the Darran Mountains, Richardson Range (in Otago) and the entire Hollyford
Valley.
The Harris Saddle emergency shelter is a popular stopping place on the boundary
between Mt Aspiring and Fiordland National Parks. The track begins its descent towards the
Hollyford Valley via wooden steps and then turns sharply south. For the most part the track
here is narrow but level, clinging to the Hollyford face of the ridge, high above the bushline.
A strong tramper could probably walk from the saddle to Lake Mackenzie in less than two
hours, but why rush? This is the best part of the trip, a stretch where you need to stop often
and soak up the incredible alpine scenery.
After 30 minutes the track arrives at the signposted junction with
Deadman's Track
, an
extremely steep route to the floor of the Hollyford Valley (five hours). The immense views
continue, and 2km from the junction with Deadman's Track the route crosses a swing bridge
over Potters Creek. In another 30 minutes you can see the cabins of Gunn's Camp at the bot-
tom of the Hollyford Valley, directly below you.
Two hours from the saddle the track rounds a spur to the east side of the ridge and comes
within view of
Lake Mackenzie
, a jewel set in a small green mountain valley. The DOC hut
is clearly visible on the far shore. The track zigzags down to the lake, dropping sharply for
the final 300m. It then skirts the bush and arrives at Lake Mackenzie Hut (50 bunks), a two-
storey building overlooking the southern end of the lake. There are bunks on the 2nd floor
of the hut, and additional beds are in a separate bunk room.
Because of the fragile nature of the lakeshore and the alpine plants, the Lake Mackenzie
Campsite is a small facility, but it does have toilets, a water supply and a cooking shelter.
The lake doesn't have a conventional outlet, so please don't wash or bathe in it.
Day 3: Lake Mackenzie to the Divide
4-5 HOURS, 12KM, 380M DESCENT
The track begins in front of the hut, passes the lodge for guided trampers and enters the
bush. You begin with a level walk, crossing several swing bridges over branches of
Roaring
Creek
, and within 15 minutes begin climbing. The climb regains the height lost in the des-
cent to Lake Mackenzie, and is steady but not steep.
About 40 minutes to one hour from the hut, the track breaks out at a natural clearing,
known as the orchard, where a handful of ribbonwoods resemble fruit trees. The view of the
Darran Mountains is excellent.
