Monument Track
Tramping track
Time:
1 hr 30 min - 2 hr return
Getting there
Lake Manapōuri is located in Fiordland National Park. The town of Manapouri is situated on its shores and is 2 hours drive to Queenstown and 15 minutes to Te Anau. Boat access is required to just north of the Hope Arm Hut.
The Stockyard Cove track is also accessible at the entrance to Hope Arm. The Garnock Burn tracks are in the same area starting on the eastern shores of Lake Manapouri.
About the area
Fiordland National Park is a vast, remote wilderness and heart of Te Wāhipounamu - South West New Zealand World Heritage Area.
Manapōuri is the fifth largest and second deepest lake in New Zealand. It is also one of the most beautiful. Several tracks start on the eastern shores of Lake Manapōuri.
Snowdon Forest is a popular area for visitors who can fish brown and rainbow trout; hunt deer, pigs or possums; or walk the many tracks.
Several tracks start on the eastern shores of Lake Manapōuri. All are at low altitude.
The Lower Waiau River does not have a bridge crossing. Access to the track on the opposite side is by hired dinghy across the river, or by boat across the lake.
There is good trout fishing in Lake Manapōuri and its tributary streams and Lake Rakatu. Anglers need a current fishing licence.
Description
Boat access is required to the start of the track, just north of the Hope Arm Hut. From here it is a short, but challenging 290 metre climb to the Monument summit.
The track climbs steeply from the beach, through forest onto the leading ridge until reaching the bushline. Extreme caution is advised as there are exposed sections of the track with crumbling rock and narrow ledges.
An alternative unmarked, overland route is available from the Hope Arm hut. Please refer to Moirs Guide South publication for details.
Places to stay
This is a standard 12-bunk hut in the Te Anau area
Plan and prepare
- Make sure your group has a capable and experienced leader who knows bushcraft and survival skills.
- Take adequate food and clothing on your trip and allow for weather changes and possible delays.
- Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return. Sign an intention form at the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre and use the hut books.
- Take care with river crossings, especially after rain. If in doubt, sit it out.
- Know the symptoms of exposure. React quickly by finding shelter and providing warmth.
- Keep to the tracks. If you become lost - stop, find shelter, stay calm and wait for searchers to find you. Don't leave the area unless you are absolutely sure where you are heading.
What to expect on a tramping track:
- Challenging day or multi-day tramping/hiking
- Track is mostly unformed with steep, rough or muddy sections
- Suitable for people with good fitness. Moderate to high level backcountry skills and experience, including navigation and survival skills required
- Track has markers, poles or rock cairns. Expect unbridged stream and river crossings
- Tramping/hiking boots required
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