Name: North Branch Track
Rating: 5.0

“A great day run from the Flats Hut.”

— Russell Hobart

Features Birding · River/Creek · Swimming · Views · Wildlife

Permit required - New Zealand has a unique system of simple (mostly) backcountry huts that typically have wood/coal heating stoves, plastic-covered mattresses, clean water and bunkhouse communal living. Space can be limited and permits are required. Check in the LDOC offices of major towns for permits. Good information can be found here: doc.govt.nz/

Runner Notes

Not optimal with creek crossing and some tight trail.

Description

From the Flats Hut, head north toward the Routeburn River. Take your shoes off and cross where you feel comfortable. The trail starts out braided as it cuts through the open grassy plain and becomes more well-defined as you follow the small tributary upstream. About a mile in, you are back in the forest. Keep following the creek until it becomes too much trouble and then head back.

Flora & Fauna

Southern Beech forests, Kea and Kaka parrots, Bellbird, Grey warbler, South Island Robin, Fantail and Brown creeper, Lancewood plants, Kiwi (you'll hear them but probably not see them), invasive Australian possums.