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Tracks & walks

Karangarua and Douglas valleys routes

West Coast region

Upper Douglas valley. Photo: Carol Burke.

Douglas Valley views

West Coast region.

The Karangarua and Douglas valleys are located at the southern end of Westland Tai Poutini National Park and provide challenging opportunities for hunters, trampers and mountaineers.

The terrain is rugged and hard, but highly rewarding for those who are suitably experienced and equipped to venture into these valleys.

Be prepared: these routes are difficult and the weather and conditions can change rapidly. With over 5 metres of rain annually you need to be ready to sit it out and wait if necessary.

Time:

2 days +

Features

The Karangarua and Douglas valleys contain high mountain peaks and varied forests, and provide wonderful opportunities for hunters, trampers and climbers.

Track description

Route description for the Karangarua and Douglas valleys.

Places to stay

There are four standard huts in the area.

Plan and prepare

Find out about how to get to the start of the route and how to have a safe and enjoyable trip.

Highlights:

Westland Tai Poutini National Park

Westland Tai Poutini National Park is located about half way down the South Island on the West Coast of New Zealand.

Guides and commercial tourism providers

Find businesses that are DOC-approved to provide activities and services for the Karangarua and Douglas valleys routes.

Find out more

Publications

Glacier region walks brochure (PDF, 2780K)

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 West Coast tracks

Contacts

Westland Tai Poutini National Park Visitor Centre
Phone:	+64 3 752 0796
Address:	13 State Highway 6 Franz Josef Glacier 7856
Email:
Full office details

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