From the jetty on the other side of the Waiau River, follow the track for 15 minutes. Bypass the Circle Track sign on the left - carry on straight ahead.

The track follows close to the lake edge a few times and there are some unofficial tracks that lead to the lake itself.

From here the track climbs gently to the spur where the Circle Track rejoins the main track.

Continue straight ahead again until reaching the Back Valley/Hope Arm Hut junction.

Take the left branch, which leads through beech and podocarp forest and a stand of ribbonwood before emerging in some small clearings, where the Back Valley Hut is situated. After heavy rain this part of the track can be quite muddy.

Back Valley Hut to Lake Rakatu, 2 hr return

The track leaves behind the hut and generally follows Stinking Creek, meandering through tall manuka stands, open clearings, podocarp and beech forest to the lake.

The lake has abundant waterfowl and good fishing.

Back Valley Hut to Hope Arm Hut, 1 - 1.5 hr one way

This tramping track allows side trips from either hut, or loop track options.

This track starts and finishes at Pearl Harbour, Manapouri, Fiordland.

To get to the start of the track you need to cross the Waiau River. There are water taxis available in the summer season, or row boats can be hired. For options contact: Manapouri Store, phone +64 3 249 6619.

To get to Manapouri from Te Anau (21 km, 20 minutes drive), follow the Manapouri - Te Anau Highway.

The wharf at Pearl Harbour is 500 m past the shops on Waiau St, and the carpark is accessed from View St (left turn south of shops).