Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ia Stream Flats to Crucible Stream, where a track enters the forest on the true left (north)
side of the stream. The track climbs steeply up a narrow spur to a hanging valley filled with
boulders and snow grass flat. Be sure to turn around and admire the framed views of Siberia
Valley and ranges beyond. The great treat, however, lies ahead. A palpable sense of anticip-
ation builds as you head up towards the lip of the crucible. We won't spoil the surprise, but
rest assured it is worth the climb.
Day 3: Siberia Hut to Makarora
6-8 HOURS, 22KM
Head to the southern end of Siberia Stream Flats to reach a marked track that enters the
forest, about a 30-minute walk. The track remains on the true left (east) bank of Siberia
Stream and gradually descends away from the flats through bush. It sidles around a shoulder
then follows a series of switchbacks over the final 450m to
Wilkin River
- a short distance
upstream from
Kerin Forks
.
Kerin Forks Hut (10 bunks) is on grassy flats 400m downstream from the confluence of
Siberia Stream and Wilkin River, on the true right (south) bank of the Wilkin; the river must
be crossed to reach it. From Siberia Hut it takes two to three hours to reach the Wilkin
River, where most trampers will have arranged to be picked up by jetboat.
To continue down the river, follow the marked track along the true left (north) bank. The
walk is easy, and within four to five hours you come to the confluence with the
Makarora
River
. Caution has to be used when fording this river, which is normally best done upstream
(north) from its junction with the Wilkin.
THE SIBERIA EXPERIENCE
If all you have is a day, it is still possible to experience a portion of this track by joining
staged out of Makarora from mid-October to mid-April. This may be one of the best
days out you ever have in NZ.
The day begins with a 25-minute scenic flight over glaciers, alpine lakes and
hanging valleys, before landing at a remote airstrip by Siberia Hut in the heart of the
Southern Alps. Once you've landed on the ground, it's time for a three-hour tramp
along a well-marked track through the beech forest of the Siberia Valley. The walk
ends at Kerin Forks, where you rendezvous with a jetboat for a thrilling 30-minute ride
back to Makarora.
