Dusky Track

Bush, waterfalls, tops, lots of birds, heaps of three wire bridges. A few sandflies if you stop. Good fun.

Transport and parking:

Need to organize boat ride across lake Hauroko to start (can usually park at Clifden and get a ride from there from the transport operator). At the end can catch a lift on the Real Journeys boat back across Lake Manapouri . Then also sort a ride back to your vehicle.

Distance from Bluff:

0 km

Driving time from Bluff:

0 minutes

Dog friendly:

Unknown

Landowner permission required:

No

Navigation Rating:

Moderate.

Cellphone Coverage:

Non-existent.

Suggested Gear List:

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

Availability of Water:

Plenty along the route. Too much maybe!

Seasonality Issues:

Be prepared for floods and the necessity of swimming sections of the track after heavy rain. Or stay in a hut and wait for rivers to drop. Winter snows can block the passes or make them require alpine experience to cross.

Hazards:

Flooding, steep sections, rough terrain, and plenty of mud