Place
The Demon Trail is the notoriously rough section of the Hollyford Track skirting Lake McKerrow/Whakatipu Waitai. Expect relentless short, steep ups and downs for every creek, on a tread of slick roots, boulders, and frequent mud. It’s slow, technical travel with real risk if conditions turn—named for a reason.
Length-wise, plan for roughly 7.5 miles/12 km point-to-point between McKerrow Island Hut and Hokuri Hut, typically taking 6–8 hours for fit trampers. This is not a loop; it’s a hut-to-hut link with Demon Trail Hut roughly in the middle offering respite and lake views. The route is marked but not always obvious—orange markers guide you through dense fern and podocarp forest with occasional three‑wire bridge crossings adding to the challenge and the fun.
Surface and footing are the story here: rough, muddy, and often slippery, especially after rain. Flooding and impassable sections are possible, and unbridged creeks can become serious hazards. If you’re after a gentle lakeside wander, look elsewhere. If you crave a classic Fiordland sufferfest with big wilderness vibes, this section delivers.
Demon Trail Hut is an older, basic 12‑bunk backcountry shelter—bring your own cooking gear. Many walkers feel a wave of relief reaching it, which tells you plenty about the day. Dogs are not permitted on this track.
Best time to hike: The Hollyford Track can be walked year‑round, but this section is far safer and more enjoyable during drier spells (late spring to early autumn). Fiordland weather changes fast—check current conditions with the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre before committing. Aim to start early for more daylight margin; wet days dramatically increase slipperiness and creek hazards.
Tips: Come fit and prepared. Sturdy boots, waterproof layers, and trekking poles are strongly recommended. Stay on the marked route, move deliberately, and don’t push creek crossings in rising water. If you just want the scenery without the punishment, consider other sections of the Hollyford Track; the Demon Trail is for those who want the hard yards.
Pros
- Walkwire/three‑wire bridge crossings add unique Fiordland character
- Lake McKerrow views near Demon Trail Hut break up a tough day
- True wilderness feel with dense fern and podocarp forest
Cons
- Relentless ups and downs for every creek make progress slow
- Route can be vague in places despite markers, especially in poor weather
- Flooding can render sections impassable after heavy rain
Parking
No dedicated parking for this hut‑to‑hut section. Plan logistics around your chosen Hollyford Track access points and confirm details with the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre.
Caution
Advanced, technical tramping with slick roots, boulders, and mud; frequent creek crossings and three‑wire bridges; sections can become impassable after heavy rain; route not always obvious—follow orange markers.
