Each week, we highlight our fave tramping trails in New Zealand for day and multi day hikes across Nelson Tasman (and beyond!)
Mt Fishtail (1641m) is an epic out-and-back day hike or overnighter, perfect for catching an unreal sunrise with 360 degree views of the surrounding Richmond & Kaikoura Ranges, and even as far as Mount Tapuae-o-Uenuku! And better yet - this one’s dog friendly 🐶
Distance: 8km to the hut, 1.2km to the summit
Elevation gain: 1400m
Just a 2 hour drive from Nelson, access is via a gravel road through private farmland to the carpark, where you’ll find a quaint river swimming hole and a toilet.
The Pine Valley track follows the river for an hour or so, before one stream crossing then a steep climb - 500m in 1.6km amongst rocks and roots. From here it is between 3 and 5 hours to the hut, with sweet sweet alpine views beyond the bushline!
The track sidles across the mountain to the tiny Mt Fishtail Hut - 4 bunks, no wood burner, and on the shady side this time of year, but a cosy shelter nevertheless.
If the weather is favourable, we HIGHLY recommend camping up on the saddle! There’s no official route to the summit, but the easiest option is following the cairns up the scree slope behind the hut.
The smaller peak is the perfect spot to catch the sunset, while the main Fishtail peak is THE spot for sunrise! While doable in a day, we think it’s well-worth the effort to stay the night 🙌
