Each week, we highlight our fave tramping trails in New Zealand for day and multi day hikes across Nelson Tasman (and beyond!)
If you’ve done the Abel Tasman a million times and are looking for something new, why not check out the Inland Track? A bit more rugged yet far quieter, this route is a great way to get off the beaten path and see the national park from new heights.
Distance: 41km
Elevation: +2367m -2357m
Marahau to Castle Rock Hut | 14km
A cruisey start, before the track splits off from the main Abel Tasman track. From here it’s a steady climb up to the hut passing Holyoake Shelter.
Castle Rock to Awapoto Hut 13km
Some more climbing from Castle Rock Hut up to 1000m, with an optional side trip to Porter Rock Lookout. The track splits off north to traverse Evans Ridge, before reaching the stunningly scenic Awapoto Hut. There won’t be any water sources up on the ridge, so take plenty for the day!
Awapoto Hut to Wainui Carpark 14km
Make sure to wake up early for the quintessential Awapoto Hut sunrise! The track mostly descends to Pigeon Saddle where it crosses Totoranui Road, then undulates through lovely, scrubby forest past Gibbs Hill. You’ll pop out at Takpou Bay at the end of McShane Road.
#explorenewzealand #abeltasmancoastaltrack #southislandadventure
