Rahu Saddle routes - Reefton
Located in Victoria Forest Park in the West Coast region
Introduction
These routes lead up into Victoria Forest Park from SH7, in between Reefton and Springs Junction.Walking and tramping
Expert: RouteDog access
Duffy Creek Route
Time: 3 hr return
Distance: 4.4 km
Start/end point: Rahu Saddle SH7
This is a lovely day walk that is off the beaten track. It begins on the true right of Duffy Creek, 400 m west of Tobins Bridge on SH7. The route is a bit rough through the bush but it isn’t far up to where it opens out to a large ephemeral lake. The wilderness feel, so close to the road, is enhanced by the large granite cliffs rising from the end of the valley.
Lake Stream Route
Time: 3 hr 30 min one way
Distance: 7.2 km
This is easy alpine ambience at its best. Tramp for half a day to arrive at a quaint 2 bunk hut. This route starts from a carpark 3 km upstream from Tobins Bridge on SH7. The route follows Lake Stream, crossing it several times. To extend the adventure take a map and compass for a walk onto the tops behind the hut to gain views into the Maruia Valley.
Mount Haast Route
Time: 6 hr return
Distance: 5 km
This is the fastest way to the bush line from Reefton. From a carpark beside the Upper Inangahua Bridge, there is a very steep two hour climb to the bushline on a well-formed route. It is another hour along the right-hand ridge to the pyramid-shaped peak of 1587 m Mt Haast which provides spectacular views of nearby glacial valleys and the Main Divide.
Klondyke routes
Time (valley): 2 hr, one way
Distance (valley): 4.5 km
Time (spur): 2 hr 30 min, one way
Distance (spur): 2 km
Start/end point: Rahu Saddle SH7
The Klondyke Valley track leads you up the valley to a tussock basin enclosed by steep granite cliffs. The Klondyke Spur route is a steeper climb leading above the bushline onto the ridge, providing spectacular views of the Victoria Range. Experienced trampers may continue along the spur and drop into the right branch of the Rahu River to join with the valley route as a round trip. Do not attempt to take a low sidle as this will lead you to dangerous bluffs.
Drive from Reefton or Springs Junction on SH7 to the Rahu Saddle. All of the routes are well signposted from the highway with good pull offs and carparking. These routes are excellent day walks giving access to tussock tops. Base yourself in Reefton for a weekend away.
Your safety is your responsibility
- Take the right gear to keep yourself safe on your tramp.
- Tell someone your plans using the Outdoors Intentions form including when to raise the alarm if you haven't returned.
- Follow the five essential steps of the Safety Code.
Contacts
| Paparoa National Park Visitor Centre | |
| Phone: | +64 3 731 1895 |
| Fax: | +64 4 471 1117 |
| Email: | paparoavc@doc.govt.nz |
| Address: |
4294 Coast Road Punakaiki RD 1 Runanga 7873 |
| Postal Address: |
4294 Coast Road Punakaiki RD 1 Runanga 7873 |
| Full office details | |
| Reefton Visitor Information Centre | |
| Phone: | +64 3 732 8391 |
| Fax: | +64 4 471 1117 |
| Email: | rvcinfo@xtra.co.nz |
| Address: |
67–69 Broadway Reefton |
| Postal Address: |
PO Box 100 Reefton 7851 |
| Full office details | |
| Dog permit contact | |
| Office: | Māwhera / Greymouth Office |
| Phone: | +64 3 768 0427 |
| Email: | greymouth@doc.govt.nz |
| Address: | PO Box 370 Greymouth 7840 |