Hike the St Arnaud Track in Nelson Lakes NP

Saint Arnaud, New Zealand

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Details

Distance

3.4 miles

Elevation Gain

3668 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Tobin Akehurst

This uncrowded hiking track ascends the St Arnaud Range high above Lake Rotoiti and affords spectacular alpine views. Many nearby tracks and the lake can be reached from the same parking area and provide lots of options for further exploration.

Park in the Kerr Bay Car Park and take a moment to enjoy views from the iconic Kerr Bay Dock.

The well signed track starts just to your left.The lower section of the walk crosses moraine terraces deposited by past glaciers while gaining very little elevation. The track cuts through a lovely beech forest for for a while before it begins to climb steadily up the slopes of the St Arnaud Range.

Once you reach the bush line views over Lake Rotoiti do not fail to impress. Continue walking to the obvious rock outcrop called Parachute Rocks. The track continues, becoming more indiscernible, to the ridge top. Once on the ridge top many high peaks and small tarns come into view. The track ends here, but if time and conditions allow, a wonderful walk southwards along the rocky spine of the range will lead you to your goal, Point 1787.

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Features

Fitness

Camping

Photography

Kayaking

Backpacking

Hiking

Bathrooms

Beach

Easy Parking

Forest

Lake

Scenic

Hike the St Arnaud Track in Nelson Lakes NP Reviews

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