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Tracks & walks

Cascade Saddle Route

Otago region

Trampers, Cascade Saddle. Photo: Neill Simpson.

Trampers, Cascade Saddle

Otago region.

The Cascade Saddle is situated in South Island's Otago region, between the West Matukituki and the Dart Valleys. The Cascade Saddle Route is a popular alpine pass trip during the summer months for suitably experienced trampers.

The Route links the Matukituki Valley Track with the Rees-Dart Track and it takes 1 - 2 days to complete the crossing.

The Route does not cross the Cascade Saddle itself, which is impassable from the Matukituki side; however, the track does pass within a short distance of it on the Dart side.

This track is one of many visitor opportunities provided in the Te Wahipounamu - South West New Zealand World Heritage Area.

Time:

1 - 2 days

Distance:

17 km

Features

Learn about the historic and natural features of the area.

Track description

Track guide for the Cascade Saddle Route and a map showing its location between the Mt Aspiring and Dart huts.

Places to stay

Aspiring and Dart huts are both found on the Cascade Saddle Route.

Plan & prepare

Make sure you have the necessary fitness level and are well prepared to do the Cascade Saddle Route.

Highlights:

Guides and commercial tourism providers

Find businesses that are DOC-approved to provide activities and services for the Cascade Saddle Route.

Find out more

Publications

Wanaka outdoor pursuits brochure (PDF, 1,877K)

Easy access walks - North Island
Easy access walks - South Island

Weather

Maps

New Zealand topographic maps are available from DOC Visitor Centres

Learn more

Track category definitions

Plan and prepare for your trip

Stop the spread of didymo
Check, Clean, Dry all items before entering, and when moving between, waterways.

Safety

Follow the Outdoor Safety Code:
1. Plan your trip
2. Tell someone
3. Be aware of the weather
4. Know your limits
5. Take sufficient supplies

Safety alerts for Otago tracks

Contacts

Makarora Visitor Centre
Phone:	+64 3 443 8365
Address:	Haast Pass Highway State Hwy 6
Email:
Full office details

Mt Aspiring National Park Visitor Centre
Phone:	+64 3 443 7660
Address:	Ardmore Street Wanaka 9305
Email:
Full office details

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