Doubtful Valley Track
Located in Lake Sumner Forest Park in the Canterbury region
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Introduction
Doubtful Valley Track follows the Doubtful River to Amuri Pass with two huts on the way. The Lake Man and Devilskin Saddle Routes branch off this track.17 km one way
Dog access
SH7 to Doubtful Hut
Time: 2 hr
Take care with river crossing; cross the Boyle River then follow the poled track on the true right of the Doubtful River across open flats to the bush. Here, pick up the track to Doubtful Hut.
Devilskin Saddle Route starts from Doubtful Hut. It links the Nina and Doubtful valleys via Devilskin Saddle.
Doubtful Hut to Doubtless Hut
Time: 1 hour 30 min
Continue up grassy river flats and sections of track until you reach the Doubtful–Doubtless confluence. Cross the Doubtful River and then the Doubtless River to reach the Doubtless Hut on the true left of the river.
Lake Man Route begins from Doubtful Valley Track between Doubtful Hut and Doubtless Hut.
Doubtless Hut to Amuri Pass
Time: 2 hr
From the hut, cross the Doubtless River and follow the track for about 10 minutes to a junction. Follow the track up the Doubtful River, crossing after about 20 minutes to the true right. The track follows the river to cut across Phantom Flat. At the top end of the flat, the track climbs steeply to the bushline. An old pack track crosses Amuri Pass.
Lake Sumner Forest Park lies 100 km northwest of Christchurch between the Lewis Pass and Arthur’s Pass National Park.
There is a car park by SH 7 – around 5 km further on from Windy Point and 5 km before Boyle Village.
There is no bridge over Boyle River from this access point, but the swingbridge at Windy Point (around 2 hours walk) can be reached via Tui Track if the river cannot be crossed.
Safety is your responsibility:
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Have the correct and the most up-to-date information
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Take a topographic map if going into more challenging country, i.e. something more than a tramping track.
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Always be prepared for sudden weather changes. Check the latest forecast, especially if any river crossings are required.
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Equip yourself well and prepare for the worst. Take enough food and water and the right clothing.
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Ensure someone else knows where you are going and when you plan to return.
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If staying in huts, fill in the intentions book. This may save your life.
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Dial 111 immediately for any fire emergency.
Stay safe in the outdoors
- Choose the right trip for you. Learn about the route and make sure you have the skills for it.
- Understand the weather. Check weather forecasts.
- Pack warm clothes and extra food. Check gear lists.
- Share your plans and take ways to get help. Share directly or use the Outdoor Intentions form or Plan My Walk. Take a distress beacon.
- Take care of yourself and each other.
Contacts
| Arthur's Pass National Park Visitor Centre | |
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| Phone | +64 3 318 9211 |
| arthurspassvc@doc.govt.nz | |
| Address | 104 West Coast Road Arthur's Pass 7654 |
| Hours | See visitor centre hours |