Hollyford Track
Hike through Fiordland's remote wilderness, from lush rainforests to the wild coast, with unique jet boat and flight options.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance for clear skies
Hollyford Track
Best Time
Best chance for clear skies
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike through Fiordland's remote wilderness, from lush rainforests to the wild coast, with unique jet boat and flight options.
"A challenging but rewarding journey through Fiordland's untamed beauty, with unforgettable wildlife and transport."
Pack for all weather! ☔
Fiordland's weather is unpredictable. Waterproofs and layers are essential.
Check track conditions ⚠️
Floods can damage the track. Always check for updates before you go.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lake Alabaster
Mid-track
A serene, mirror-like lake offering breathtaking reflections of the surrounding mountains. Pure tranquility.
Martins Bay
End of the track
A gorgeous coastal destination where the Fiordland wilderness meets the Tasman Sea. Stunning views await.
Jet Boat Adventure
Hollyford River & Lake McKerrow
Experience the thrill of a jet boat ride, navigating rivers and lakes to reach remote historical sites.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for Fiordland's Wild Weather
Logistics and Self-Sufficiency
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for all weather! ☔
Fiordland's weather is unpredictable. Waterproofs and layers are essential.
Check track conditions ⚠️
Floods can damage the track. Always check for updates before you go.
Consider a guided trip 🚶♀️
Guides offer local knowledge and handle logistics, especially for challenging sections.
Self-sufficiency is key 🎒
Beyond Alabaster, be prepared for fallen trees and river crossings. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for all weather! ☔
Fiordland's weather is unpredictable. Waterproofs and layers are essential.
Check track conditions ⚠️
Floods can damage the track. Always check for updates before you go.
Consider a guided trip 🚶♀️
Guides offer local knowledge and handle logistics, especially for challenging sections.
Self-sufficiency is key 🎒
Beyond Alabaster, be prepared for fallen trees and river crossings. +1
Embrace the wilderness 🌲
Enjoy the remote beauty and unique wildlife encounters.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Hollyford Track is lauded for its stunning, wild beauty and unique experiences like jet boating and potential wildlife sightings. While sections are well-maintained, some parts are challenging, requiring preparedness for fallen trees and river crossings. The remote nature and potential for unpredictable weather are part of its allure, offering a true Fiordland adventure.
"We hiked in to Lake alabaster along the Hollyford track in June. Only met 2 other people on the track and they had not seen anyone else either. Had good weather, the hike was pleasant (22kms from the trailhead to lake alabaster hut) the water in the rivers is incredible to look at and drink. Lake Alabaster hut was amazing and we had it to ourselves. The view on the lake was a mirror. Waited my whole life to take a picture like that. There is a little more up and down than the brochures seem to indicate but it was quite easy. The infrastructure for transport in winter though is poor so you need to be self sufficient and plan a little more to make it come together. Milford sound helicopters can help with transfers if needed though."
Don Williams
"Very well maintained track until Alabaster Hut.
Then it gets challenging with a lot of fallen trees on the track and walkwires. The last bit from Jamestown to Martins Bay is better maintained again.
Martins Bay is gorgeous!
The Hike valley route is very challenging and not maintained at all : bushbashing, climbing, river crossings. It took me 12h (walking time) to go from Big Bay hut to Olivine hut. A GPS is essential as there are some long sections without any markers."
Julie CHEBANCE
"Well worth the effort.
Skilled and knowledgeable guides and hosts. Brand new accommodation. Underfloor heating in ensuite- would you believe - in the middle of Fiordland!
Glamping at its best...."
Roger Goodman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The main trailhead is accessible by road from Te Anau. You can drive yourself or arrange transport. Some guided tours include transport from Queenstown.
Public transport directly to the trailhead is limited. Many visitors opt for guided tours that include transport, or arrange private shuttles.
Winter access can be challenging due to weather and track conditions. Self-sufficiency is crucial, and some sections may be impassable.
Options include a helicopter flight back to Queenstown or a combination of jet boat and light plane.
Yes, you can hike to Lake Alabaster and back as a long day hike (approx. 22km each way), but it's best experienced as an overnight trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the track itself is free to access, booking huts or guided tours in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season. +1
Yes, there are fees for staying in the huts. Booking is essential and can be done through the Department of Conservation or guided tour operators.
The track is generally open year-round, but access and conditions can vary significantly with the seasons. Always check current conditions.
Fiordland National Park itself does not have an entrance fee, but specific activities or guided tours within the park may have associated costs.
Camping is generally restricted to designated campsites or huts. Check with the Department of Conservation for specific regulations and booking requirements.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The track varies. The initial section to Lake Alabaster is moderately challenging. Beyond that, it becomes more challenging with fallen trees and river crossings. +1
A full traverse to Martins Bay and back can take 5-6 days. Shorter sections, like to Lake Alabaster, can be done in 1-2 days.
You might spot native birds like Kaka, Kereru, Bellbirds, and possibly rare white herons. Keep an eye out for dolphins in the coastal areas.
The initial sections are well-marked. However, further along, especially on the Pyke route, it can be less defined and require navigation skills.
Huts are available with basic amenities, including sleeping platforms and water. Some guided tours offer glamping with more comfort. +1
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Lake Alabaster for reflections, Martins Bay for coastal vistas, and the numerous waterfalls and lush rainforests offer stunning photographic opportunities.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for landscape photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
A wide-angle lens for landscapes, a telephoto lens for wildlife, and a sturdy tripod are recommended. Don't forget a waterproof camera bag!
Embrace the weather! Use a polarizing filter to manage reflections and a rain cover for your camera. The mist adds a dramatic atmosphere.
Drone usage may be restricted in national parks. Always check the latest regulations with the Department of Conservation before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The chance to see native birds and experience a jet boat ride can be particularly exciting for younger adventurers. For families, it's crucial to prioritize safety and comfort. Consider guided trips that provide comfortable accommodation and handle challenging terrain. Ensure children are well-prepared with appropriate gear, including waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear. The unique wildlife encounters and the sense of adventure make the Hollyford Track a memorable family experience.
🎒 Budget Travelers
Careful planning is essential to manage costs. Research the hut fees, potential transport options from Martins Bay, and pack all your own food and gear. While challenging, the reward of experiencing this remote wilderness independently can be immense for budget-conscious travelers.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be prepared for Fiordland's signature weather; the mist and rain can create incredibly atmospheric and moody shots. Pack waterproof gear for your camera and consider lenses that capture both grand vistas (wide-angle) and detailed wildlife (telephoto). The unique transport options, like jet boats and helicopters, also offer fantastic photographic perspectives.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Hollyford Track: From Well-Maintained to Wild
However, beyond Lake Alabaster, the track transforms. Hikers encounter more challenging conditions, including numerous fallen trees that require careful navigation or bush-bashing, and river crossings that can be hazardous, especially after rain. The section from Jamestown to Martins Bay improves again, but the Pyke Valley route is notoriously rugged, demanding significant bush-bashing, climbing, and river crossings, often requiring a GPS for navigation.
This duality means preparation is key. While guided tours often manage the more challenging sections with specialized transport like jet boats and helicopters, independent hikers need to be well-equipped and aware of the potential difficulties.
+1The Fiordland Experience: Wildlife and Wilderness
Birdwatchers might also be lucky enough to spot the rare white heron or the tiny Tomtit. The remote nature of the track means these encounters feel particularly special. Beyond the birds, the journey can also lead to sightings of dolphins in the coastal waters near Martins Bay, adding another layer of wonder to the experience.
This immersion in wilderness is a core part of the Hollyford Track's appeal. It's a chance to disconnect from the everyday and appreciate the pristine environment, a sentiment echoed by many who have walked the track.
+1Unique Transport on the Hollyford Track
+1For those completing the full track or seeking a swift return to Queenstown, a helicopter flight offers a spectacular aerial perspective of the Fiordland landscape. This can be a breathtaking way to see the fjords, mountains, and coastline from above, a stark contrast to the ground-level trekking.
+1These specialized transport options are often integrated into guided tours, allowing visitors to experience the full breadth of the Hollyford Track's diverse terrain and stunning scenery without the need for extensive self-navigation in the most challenging sections.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit