Nicholsons Track
Located in Kopuwai Conservation Area in the Otago region
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Introduction
This short track takes you from the top of Symes Road through beautiful tussock country to Nicholson Hut.6 km return via same track
Seasonal restrictions
In winter this area is blanketed in snow, extremely cold, and exposed.
Dog access
Nicholsons Track is a high altitude steep track starting at 1600 m before dropping down to Nicholsons Hut at 1400 m. Near the hut the remains of the gold mining days can be seen in the water races and rock tailings.
The hut sits beside a small stream that drains from a wetland catchment. You can explore the historic features from the gold mining era along Fraser River and the many wetland plants.
For people with alpine snow experience, this area offers great ski touring, snow shoeing, and kite skiing opportunities.
Mountain biking
1 hr return – 20 minutes down and 40 minutes pushing your bike back up. This is a short but relatively steep track.
Nicholsons Track is in the heart of the Kopuwai Conservation Area.
- From Alexandra head south on SH 8 for 14 km to Fruitlands.
- Turn right onto Symes Road.
- Follow this gravel road up to the top of the Old Man Range for 12 km. Parking and Nicholsons Track starts at the top of Symes Road.
There's no carpark – park just off the road at the start of the track.
Winter access – roads impassable
Road access to Kopuwai Conservation Area is on dry-weather, largely un-maintained legal roads. In winter the roads become impassable because of snow and ground conditions.
This area is subject to weather extremes at any time of year and roads can become very wet and swampy. Check the weather forecast or contact Tititea/Mount Aspiring National Park Visitor Centre.
The track starts around 1600 m altitude and remains above 1000 m altitude.
Weather and fog: Temperatures at this altitude can change suddenly even in mid-summer. Take warm and windproof clothing. Fog can roll in quickly – take a map and GPS to help with navigation during the fog.
Avalanches: Be avalanche aware as this area has ‘simple’ avalanche terrain.
Leave what you find
Remember that all rocks, historic artefacts, native plants and animals are protected on public land. Tread carefully and take only photographs.
Contacts
| Tititea/Mount Aspiring National Park Visitor Centre | |
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| Phone | +64 3 443 7660 |
| wanakavc@doc.govt.nz | |
| Address | 1 Ballantyne Road Wanaka 9305 |
| Hours | See visitor centre hours |