Minaret Burn Track
Track category
Walking track
Mountain bike - Intermediate
Description
From Homestead Bay follow the marked track north, as the track undulates gently above the Lake Wanaka shoreline until it meets a 4WD track. About two to three hours from Homestead Bay a track leads off to the right to Colquhouns Beach, a pleasant place to swim and picnic.
After crossing Station Creek, you're in the conservation area of the same name. This incorporates remnant forest and shrub lands and provides access to the lake foreshore. At the north end of the conservation area, the Rumbling Burn Track leads off to the left, giving access (foot only) to Mount Alta Conservation Area. On the main track, after about 10 minutes, it crosses the Rumbling Burn. Take care crossing this burn as it may be impassable during snow melt or after heavy rain.
At the mouth of the Rumbling Burn you'll find a delightful bush-clad beach. By taking the track to cross the burn you're in the Minaret Burn Mouth Conservation Area. From here the track climbs steeply out of Rumbling Burn Valley before following a gentle terrace to the Minaret Burn. Just before the burn itself, a track leads east to the mouth of the Minaret Burn and the lakefront. The burn's true left is on Minaret Station and permission is required for access.
Getting there
The track starts at Homestead Bay, at the end of West Wanaka Road.
Activities
Horse riding
Mountain biking and cycling
This track is suitable for walking, mountain biking and horse riding.
There are no horse gates. Riders, therefore, must get access details and a gate key from West Wanaka Station (+64 3 443 7144) for locked gates on public tracks.
Plan and prepare
- The Minaret Burn Track is by private land. Please respect the landowner's livestock and property by ensuring that gates are left as found and, where they're provided, that stiles are used.
- Providing hunters have a current hunting permit for lands administered by the Department of Conservation, unloaded firearms may be carried on tracks. Under no circumstances are firearms to be discharged prior to entering permitted hunting areas.
- Minaret Hut is a private hut and permission must be obtained from West Wanaka Station before using it.
Safety
- All trampers need to plan properly and be well equipped. This includes having appropriate maps. For this area the topographical map, topo50 CA12 Minaret Bay is recommended.
- In summer, very hot and dry conditions are common. Make sure you carry an adequate water supply and, as this is a typical Central Otago climate, have adequate protection against the sun.
- If venturing into the mountains, alpine conditions may be experienced at any time of year. Be prepared and ensure that you carry warm, windproof clothing and have the appropriate footwear. Naturally enough, the higher country is under snow during the winter months.
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