Lake Minchin

Lake Minchin is a remote backcountry lake on the expert Minchin Pass route in Arthur's Pass National Park. From Poulter Hut, it is about an hour along marked, easy-gradient track through beech forest, and makes a pleasant outing if you are already staying at the hut. Reaching Poulter Hut is the bigger commitment: the full route takes three to four days, so this is not a drive-up stop. The recommended season is summer or autumn; flooded rivers and avalanches are hazards, and heavy snow makes the pass especially dangerous. Check current track conditions and avalanche advice before setting out.

The marked track follows the lake's eastern shore, then continues over river flats toward Minchin Pass. The route reaches the water at the southeast shore. From an opening along the track, frame the water with the forested slope opposite; on a calm day, the lake can reflect the surrounding hillside.

The northern end is the best place to camp, but there is no hut beside the lake. The former hut is now only a site, so arrive with the equipment and supplies you need for a backcountry camp.

The lake is named for E.C. Minchin, who began runholding in the area in 1857 and stayed until 1870. A hut once stood beside the lake; the old hut site is the reminder of that earlier stop on the route.