Carpark to Architect Creek Hut

Copland Track starts at a carpark beside Rough Creek, accessed from SH6 beside the bridge over Karangarua River. Check for any closure notices in the shelter at the carpark, then cross Rough Creek if conditions are safe to do so.

Find the orange marker on the other side of Rough Creek then follow the well-formed path through the forest. The track is marked across open areas and river crossings by orange triangle markers.

The track alternates mostly between boulder hopping on rocky riverbed and forest tracks, with occasional grassy clearings.

Architect Creek Hut to Welcome Flat Hut

Architect Creek Hut is roughly halfway to Welcome Flat. From the hut, the track continues upstream to Architect Creek.

Beyond Architect Creek the track climbs very gradually towards Palaver Creek as the valley narrows. The climb becomes more noticeable once you have crossed Open Creek.

You will pass an active landslide around 30 minutes upstream of Architect Creek. signposted with a no-stopping zone. Take extra care during and just after heavy rain.

After crossing the Shiels Creek bridge, you will pass another signposted no-stopping active landslide area. The track zigzags to its highest point, then descends through forest before emerging at Welcome Flat Hut.

Welcome Flat natural hot pools

The hot pools are just a short stroll from the hut. They have fine views of the Sierra Range on a clear day.

These pools are a fragile environment so do not use soaps or shampoo or dig more pools. Always keep your head above the water to avoid the risk of amoebic meningitis.

Return journey

Follow Copland Track back down the valley to the car park.

If Rough Creek is flooded or looking unsafe when you are exiting the valley, do not try to cross it. Use the flood bridge about 30 minutes upstream instead. Being swept off your feet in Rough Creek is very dangerous as you could be washed into the Karangarua River.

Understand if you are ready for the Copland Valley Track

Watch the NZ Mountain Safety Council’s walk-through video which takes you through how to prepare for this track. Including facilities, key decision points, hazards and typical conditions for the area. 

Access is off SH 6, 26 km south of Fox Glacier. The turn-off to the car park is well signposted on the northern side of the Karangarua River bridge. After turning off, drive approximately 150 m down the gravel road to the car park. Close the gate on your way through.

Bus transport may be available but must be booked in advance.

Copland Car Park

No camping

There are no camping facilities at the road end.

Take valuables with you

Do not leave valuables in your vehicle.

Kea at the car park

Kea are highly intelligent and inquisitive native parrots. They can damage cars, items on car roofs, aerials, bikes, motorbikes, helmets, and tramping equipment.

Protect your vehicle and gear by:

• Using a car cover
• Packing away or covering loose items (kea will explore them by pulling them apart)

Never feed kea. It encourages them into carparks and is bad for their health.

Flooding and closures

• Streams in this valley can flood at any time of year. Do not hike this track in severe weather or when heavy rain is forecast.
• Do not cross the side streams when they are flooding.
• The Copland River can flood sections of track making it impassable.
• The track can be closed at short notice for heavy rain. Closure notices will be posted at the track entrance and emailed to people with bookings.
• Carry extra food and make flexible plans as you may be delayed at Welcome Flat Hut if the track closes.

Stay safe when crossing rivers and streams

If you plan to cross unbridged rivers or side streams, know how to cross safely and be prepared for if you cannot cross.

Do not cross if the river or stream is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop. If in doubt, stay out.

How to cross rivers safely

NIWA river flow forecasts: View a video of national followed by regional river flows

Track surface

What to expect:

• An intermediate tramping track
• Uneven track with boulder hopping and tree roots
• Slippery rocks after rain or frost
• Muddy sections
• Stream crossings, some with bridges and some with no bridges
• No-stopping landslide zones

Watch the Mountain Safety Council video about the Copland Track.

Skills and gear

• Good fitness (7+ hours walking per day)
• River crossing skills
• Basic backcountry skills and experience
• Flexible plans for delays and track closures
• The gear on the overnight packing list, including extra food for delays

Landslides

There are two large, active landslide areas. These are marked with no-stopping signs. Take extra care during and after heavy rain.

There can also be new landslides along the track.

Avalanches

Avalanche conditions can threaten parts of the track during the winter months, and especially in later winter and spring when temperatures start to increase.