Lake Emma to Lake Camp Track
Located in Hakatere Conservation Park in the Canterbury region
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Introduction
Walk or mountain bike to an old musterers hut near Lake Emma.9 km
Mountain biking
Easy: Grade 2Dog access
Walk or mountain bike to the historic Lake Emma Hut (overnight stays are not allowed) and then on to Lake Camp.
The two-room hut at Lake Emma, with its tack shed and verandah, was built between the late 1860s and 1890. It sits by the lake shore and is a lovely spot for a breather or lunch.
During the summer, there is weather-dependent 4WD access to Lake Emma Hut; this makes it easier for picnicking, fishing or those who are less mobile. A boat launching site at the northern end of the lake makes exploring the lake by kayak very easy.
The vehicle gate at Lake Emma is locked for the winter months to protect the track from damage due to the wet conditions. This gate is closed from the first weekend in May to the first weekend in November.
Lake Roundabout
Just before the Lake Emma car park, a short track (60 m, 5 min) provides access to Lake Roundabout. This little gem has lovely views of the surrounding mountains and, at the southern end, heads of Carex secta/pūkio look like trolls standing in the lake.
Mountain biking
This is a shared-use track. Follow the mountain bikers code: respect others, respect the rules, respect the track.
Lake Emma and Lake Camp are on Hakatere Potts Road, about 28 km west of Mount Somers. Leave Mount Somers on Ashburton Gorge Road, which becomes Hakatere Potts Road.
Stay safe in the outdoors
- Choose the right trip for you. Learn about the route and make sure you have the skills for it.
- Understand the weather. Check weather forecasts.
- Pack warm clothes and extra food. Check gear lists.
- Share your plans and take ways to get help. Share directly or use the Outdoor Intentions form or Plan My Walk. Take a distress beacon.
- Take care of yourself and each other.
Contacts
| Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park Visitor Centre | |
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| Phone | +64 3 435 1186 |
| mtcookvc@doc.govt.nz | |
| Address | 1 Larch Grove Aoraki/Mount Cook 7999 |
| Hours | See visitor centre hours |