Discover the Lake Hauroko Loop in Fiordland
Located on the edge of Lake Hauroko in the heart of Fiordland, the Lake Hauroko Loop is a flat and accessible 40-minute walking track. Starting from the east side of the Lake Hauroko car park, this loop is a peaceful walk through mature beech rainforest and along the lake's edge. The greenery and tranquil setting, rich with lichen and moss, make it a delightful experience for everyone.
Explore the Beech Forest
As you walk the loop in an anti-clockwise direction, you'll encounter a particularly vibrant section of forest. This area is noticeably wetter, with dense hanging lichen, moss, and epiphytes competing for space among the beech trees. The rich biodiversity is complemented by a variety of birds, including the curious pīwakawaka (fantails), which often flit around the track.
Extend Your Adventure
While completing the loop, you'll come across the starting point of the Teal Bay Hut Track. This challenging 18 km tramping track leads to the southern end of Lake Hauroko, where it connects with another 17 km track over the north end of the Hump Ridge to Te Waewae Bay. For those seeking a tough Fiordland adventure, this route is a rugged and memorable experience.
Summer Water Taxi and Dusky Track
In the summer months, you can arrange a water taxi across Lake Hauroko to access the start of the multiday Dusky Track. This is a demanding multi-day tramp through Fiordland, leading to Lake Manapouri. The Dusky Track is known for its challenging terrain, including deep mud, and stunning natural beauty. It is one of he ultimate wild adventures in the South Island.
How to Get There
To reach Lake Hauroko, take Lillburn Valley Road from the Southern Scenic Route as it passes through Clifden to the Lake Hauroko car park, which is the starting point for the track. There is also a DOC campsite 5 km before you reach the car park. From Clifden, the drive is 35 km and takes 42 minutes. From Te Anau, it is 100 minutes and 120 km and from Invercargill, 100 minutes and 110 km. Lillburn Road is a gravel road after the first 16 km or so.
Other places where you can access stunning short walks in Fiordland include The Big Totara Walk, Monowaii Lookout Walk, and the Borland Nature Walk. Borland Road provides deeper access into the park.
