Backpack the Magical Earnslaw Burn

Glenorchy, New Zealand

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Details

Distance

8.7 miles

Elevation Gain

1968.5 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Tobin Akehurst

This rugged hike leads into a spectacular and enormous alpine basin under the Earnslaw Glacier, surrounded by dozens of waterfalls.

Once you identify the parking area (Right turn off Glenorchy Paradise Road just before crossing the Earnslaw Burn, park a the bend in the road.) Cross the boggy meadow in a NW direction until you see the orange trail markers on trees.

The trail below bush line is long, very rugged and covered with blowdowns, but clean water sources are plentiful. Once you break out of the bush you are surrounded by soaring rock walls, countless waterfalls and glaciers. Continue along the river edge past several nice campsites into the head of the basin, and Gilkison Falls flowing from the lower ice cliffs of the Earnslaw Burn.

Keep an eye on the glacier and you will likely see some impressive ice avalanches!

Looking for more adventure? Check out Climb Mt. Earnslaw.

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Features

Photography

Camping

Rock Climbing

Chillin

Backpacking

Hiking

Easy Parking

Forest

River

Scenic

Waterfalls

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