Exploring the Mount Burns Tops Track
Located at the eastern end of the Borland Saddle parking area on Borland Road, the Mount Burns Tops Track is nestled in the remote expanse of Fiordland National Park. This track offers a relatively easy climb into the mountains, ascending 200 metres to a ridge southeast of Mount Burns. The entire walk to the ridge and back takes approximately 45 minutes.
Entering a Magical Mountain Forest
The walk begins in an enchanting forest of stunted mountain beech, draped in white and green lichens and moss, creating a magical atmosphere. You can't actually see what you're about to enter from the road or the start of the trail; you have to walk in for the experience. There are many examples of lichen and moss-covered rainforests in New Zealand, but far fewer easily accessible forests dripping in white lichen. The forest section alone is worth the visit and can be completed in about 10 to 15 minutes.
Continuing to the Tops
Beyond the forest, the landscape opens up with incredible views to the west across the national park, and Mt Burns to the east. The track heads through tussocks, alpine shrubs, and vibrant flowers in season. Although the path is steep, it is only about a kilometre to the ridge and teh first tarn. At the top, you'll find several more tarns, with more views to the south. From there, you can continue to explore further along the ridge and around Mount Burns.
Be prepared with appropriate clothing, as the weather can be icy cold and wet, even during the summer months.
How to Get There
From the Southern Scenic Route, between Clifden and Manapouri, take Lake Monowai Road to Borland Road. This road takes you to Borland Saddle, deep in Fiordland National Park. There is plenty of space to park on the saddle, and the track entrance is marked in the southeast corner. Note that the road is gravel, narrow and winding in places, but suitable for most 2WD vehicles up to the Grebe Valley Lookout.
Further along the road, you can access the Green Lake Track. Further back, near the park entrance, you can explore the Borland Nature Walk and Lake Monowai and the Monowai Lookout Track.
