Matukituki Cascade Saddle Dart Epic

Stunning panoramic views of Mt Aspiring, Mt Barff, and other surrounding peaks on the climb up and over Cascade Saddle. Views of Dart Glacier and the Dart River down Dart Valley.

There is plenty of parking available at Raspberry Flat Carpark, which is about a 1.5 hour drive from Wanaka. This is a popular spot for trampers, day hikers, and mountaineers accessing Rob Roy Glacier, French Ridge and Liverpool Huts, and Mt Aspiring and the surrounding peaks; as such, the carpark can be pretty full so best to arrive early. Overnight parking is allowed and seems relatively safe. Flush toilets are also available at the carpark.

8 km

9 minutes

Unknown

No

Hard.

From Dart Hut, make sure you take the track that continues down the Dart River towards Daleys Flat Hut. DO NOT TAKE THE TRACK UP TO REES SADDLE.
Orange markers and poles are consistent throughout the Cascade Saddle route, look for them.

Non-existent.

Waterproof leggings, Thermal leggings, Lightweight fleece top, Long-sleeved thermal top, Seam-sealed waterproof jacket, Gloves, Beanie/thermal headwear, Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Survival bag, Cellphone, Compass, Map, Headtorch and spare batteries, Crampons / microspikes (for winter conditions).

Plenty of water is available at huts and stream crossings. Take a decent-sized bladder and fill up at each hut (Aspiring, Dart, and Daleys Flat).

Cascade Saddle Route is extremely hazardous in wet conditions and can be very slippery. It can also hold snow for much of the year, even during summer months; educate yourself on the current conditions, be prepared to assess the risks for yourself, bring the appropriate equipment, and be prepared to turn around if conditions aren't favourable. The saddle is also exposed to high winds and cold temperatures throughout the year.
Stream crossings along the route can also present hazards during or after periods of heavy rain or snowmelt.



From DOC: "If snow is present [on the Cascade Saddle route], do not proceed without an ice axe and crampons and the skills to use them - slipping can mean falling several hundred metres off the cliffs."