Blue Pools car park to Camp Flat

Time: 2 - 3 hr one way
Distance: 2.5 km one way

The Blue valley is easily accessible and an interesting day or overnight trip. The track starts at the Blue Pools car park. After 20 minutes, the valley track branches off just after the swing bridge over the Makarora River. The scenic Blue Pools are a 10 minute (return) side trip from this point.

From the junction, the track climbs around and above the Blue River and drops to cross a forested basin of mature tawhai / silver beech. The track then climbs again, sidles up a gorge and descends
to Camp Flat, a grassy and pleasant lunch stop or campsite

Camp Flat to head of valley

Time: 6 - 7 hr one way
Distance: 13.5 km one way

Follow the poled track up the true left of the valley. Take care around a semi-active slip and awkward access along the river’s edge. Cross the Blue River about 50 metres below its north branch and stay on the true right for about 6-7 hours to reach the upper grassy flats.

The track starts at the Blue Pools car park off SH6, opposite Cameron Flat campsite. From Wānaka, drive north on the Haast Highway (SH6) to Makarora township. Continue along the highway for about 12 km.

Skyline Track in summer

This track has no shade along much of the route and no drinking water. We recommend starting early in the day and bringing sun protection and plenty of water.

There can be bad weather, strong wind gusts and low visibility at any time of year. Check the Mount Aspiring National Park weather forecast – NIWA website  and reschedule your hike if there's poor weather. Be sure to check the wind gusts when checking the forecast.

Skyline Track is not recommended in winter

Low cloud is common in winter and makes it hard to follow the track. There can also be snow and ice on the track in winter, which makes the narrow and high sections of the track much more difficult.

What to take when hiking Skyline Track

This track is fully exposed to the weather, especially on the ridgelines. Be prepared for fast-changing weather by having warm, waterproof, windproof clothing, sun protection, and sturdy footwear with good grip. You cannot buy food or water on the track, bring plenty with you. Day Hikes gear list.

There may be fallen trees after adverse weather, so be prepared for longer tramping times. 

Avalanche risk

This area has terrain that can produce avalanches that cross the track, usually from May into November. View avalanche information.

Stay safe when crossing rivers and streams

If you plan to cross unbridged rivers or side streams, know how to cross safely and be prepared for if you cannot cross.

Do not cross if the river or stream is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop. If in doubt, stay out.

How to cross rivers safely

NIWA river flow forecasts: View a video of national followed by regional river flows

No visitor centre in Makarora

Contact the Awarua/Haast or Tititea/Mount Aspiring National Park visitor centres instead.