Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea are separated by a mountain range which the popular Isthmus Peak Track climbs, offering spectactular views of the northern parts of both lakes. Continue along the tops and you get to the Matatiaho Conservation Area where you are able to camp for the night. Marvel at the starry sky and be in awe the incredible light show on offer as the sun sets and rises again.
Time to complete
2 Days
Accommodation style
Back-country Camping
Track type
Return via same track
Distance
33km
Difficulty
Medium
Bookings required
None
Incredible views over the surrounding area
Well graded trails to make the climb easy
Visit the famous Isthmus Peak
Chance to see deer and other wildlife
Plenty of freedom for campsite selection
Experience a magical sunrise and sunset
This is a well formed trail which is very obvious the entire duration of the hike in good conditions. The track is a mixture of forest single track and Alpine route finding, however you will find that the route finding is very easy (assuming there is no snow) as the tops consist mostly of gently rolling hills. There are incredible views in all directions once you get above the tree line. The central plateau volcanoes being the most prominent of these, the vastness of Lake Taupo and of course the Kaimanawa ranges. The ranges here are frequented by hunters due to the high numbers of deer in the area- Hiking along this trail you’ll even have the chance to see or hear one if you’re lucky.
Track condition
-Well taken care of trails under the tree line with well draining soil
-Route finding over the tops is very obvious the entire time but should be avoided in adverse weather
Optionals
-There is a detour that can be taken on the way there or back which is well worth it. See guide for details
This track starts and finishes at the same location.
Trail start/finish location: Isthmus Peak Track Carpark
-Huts:
There are no huts on this trail, camping is the only option
-Camping:
You can camp anywhere within the conservation area boundary. No open fires are allowed.
-Booking:
No bookings required
The exposed nature of the tops and the geographical location mean that good rain gear and warm layers should be taken as a precaution even with good weather forecasted. Given the elevation a very warm sleeping bag will be needed even in the summer.
Summer | Example packing list
Spring + Autnum | Example packing list
Possible given the correct gear is taken (Crampons, ice axe, etc) .The ease of the route finding here means it’s a good location to practice using these items for more technical trips however weather forecasts should be carefully considered and the correct sleeping equipment should be used.
Department of conservation website | Roys Peak Weather
15km | 4.5-5.5 Hours
2.5-3.5 hours
Follow the Isthmus peak track as if heading to Isthmus peak. The track consists mainly of old farm roads at moderate gradients the entire way. There is a small spring in the side of the trail just after reaching about 1000m elevation which can be used to top up water supplies for the night.
2 hours
At the junction, instead of turning off to Isthmus peak, continue on the farm road following the ridge line as it undulates over the range. There are no track markers here so just follow the road until you reach the conservation area. You can camp once inside the Matatiaho conservation area.
18km | 4-5 Hours
4-5 hours
Head back to the carpark via the same track travelled the day prior with a side trip up to Isthmus peak if not dome the day prior.
The view from Isthumus Peak
Golden hour on the ridge line
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