Cleopatra's Pool Track

Overview

This is a short, detour-style adventure to a freshwater swimming hole on the Torrent River, famous for its smooth natural rock “waterslide.” It branches off the Abel Tasman Coast Track between Anchorage and the Torrent Bay area. Expect clear, cold water and a lively scene on busy days. This is a time‑based side trip (~40 minutes return from the main track) rather than a distance‑driven hike.

Getting There

Most day walkers take a water taxi to Anchorage from Mārahau or Kaiteriteri, then follow the Abel Tasman Coast Track toward Torrent Bay on the high‑tide route; a signed side track leads to Cleopatra’s Pool. Water taxis make section walking easy, and you can return to Anchorage for pickup or continue on to Torrent Bay/Bark Bay for a later pickup.

Route and Timing

From the main Coast Track, the side trip to Cleopatra’s Pool takes about 40 minutes return. If you’re basing from Anchorage, plan roughly 1.5–2.5 hours total including walking time plus a swim/photo stop before returning or carrying on. Tides matter between Anchorage and Torrent Bay: the low‑tide route is a 0.9 km estuary crossing (~20 minutes), while the all‑tide/high‑tide route takes about 1–1.5 hours around the estuary. Crucially, the turnoff to Cleopatra’s Pool is on the high‑tide route—if the pool is a must‑do, take that route even when the estuary is crossable at low tide.

What to Expect

The Coast Track here is well formed and well signposted. The side track is short and easy with some rocks and roots near the river. The pool is clear and cold, and the smooth rock can be very slippery—take care getting in and out. Avoid the natural slide during very low flows (scrapey) and soon after heavy rain (swift water).

Best Time to Hike

The Abel Tasman Coast Track is walkable year‑round. Expect the busiest period from October through April. Start early or later in the afternoon for a quieter pool and softer light in the forested gorge. Always check tide information if you’re planning to use the Torrent Bay estuary crossing elsewhere in your day.

Safety and Etiquette

Bring grippy sandals or water shoes for the slick rock, plus sun protection and insect repellent—wasps and sandflies are present. Stay on marked tracks; parts of Torrent Bay are private—use the public route. Pack out all rubbish. Drones require a permit and are generally not approved. If you’re overnighting elsewhere on the track, know that hut/campsite water is untreated and must be boiled. There is coastal tsunami risk—if you feel a long/strong quake or see unusual sea behavior, move to higher ground.