Each week, we highlight our fave tramping trails in New Zealand for day and multi day hikes across Nelson Tasman (and beyond!)
There are few places in the world where you can camp somewhere so spectacular and be back home within 24 hours. Perfect if you’re after some alpine solitude or the kids are ready to push their limits – Parachute Rocks and the St Arnaud Range is one of those quintessential overnighters (or day hikes!) that should be on everyone’s bucket list!
Distance: ~6km one way
Elevation: +1094m -148m
Just a 1.5 hour drive from Nelson, the trailhead starts at Kerr Bay in St Arnaud and winds its way up through native beech forest. The total climb usually takes 3-4 hours and is within the forest for most of the way. At 910m the incline increases, though the track remains very nicely maintained; interspersed with roots and rocks but never too technical. You’ll catch glimpses of Lake Rotoiti through the trees, but it’s not until you reach the bushline at 1445m that the view really opens up.
The final push up onto the ridge is rocky, gravelly and very steep. There are a few lookouts to rest and soak up the views of the lake, Mount Robert and Robert Ridge - stunning on a clear day! Once on the ridge, you’ll be able to see across to the incredible Raglan Range and down to the tarns: your home for the night.
Choose your own adventure from here – drop down the short scree slope and set up camp at the nearest tarn, or continue along the ridge and pick from a handful of other beautiful tarns and mountaintop vistas. It’s well worth exploring more of the ridge while you’re up here, but keep in mind there is no marked route, just a rough-cut track which can be quite scramble-y (but fun!)
If you’re keen to give more adventurous trips a go but are nervous to go by yourself, you can contact the Nelson Tramping Club, Nelson Women’s Hiking Group or other community/Facebook groups to organise a trip. We also run workshops on Tramping for Beginners and Solo Tramping if you’re keen to learn more! Stay safe and have fun out there – autumn is a great time to be in the hills <3
~Emma
