Jamestown Track

The Jamestown Track is a short, low-altitude side trip off the Hollyford Track near Martins Bay, leading to the ghostly site of the failed 1870s Jamestown settlement. Expect lush temperate rainforest—beech, podocarp, ribbonwood—draped in moss, with the big-water backdrop of Lake McKerrow/Whakatipu Waitai and the Hollyford River never far away. It’s remote, quiet, and rich with birdlife; at the coast near Martins Bay, seal and penguin sightings are possible.

Length-wise, plan on about 3.2 miles/5 km return from Martins Bay Hut (roughly 1.6 miles/2.5 km each way). It’s an out-and-back wander on mostly flat terrain with a natural surface and occasional boardwalks; after rain (which is common here), expect mud and slippery roots. Not wheelchair accessible, and no pets.

You’re walking through a classic Fiordland glacial landscape—steep-sided, U-shaped valley carved by ice, with dynamic rivers and frequent waterfalls. The historic “town” is now mostly forest and clearings with traces of old sections and interpretation; the atmosphere is the draw: a lost settlement swallowed by rainforest. If you’re approaching on foot via the Hollyford, remember the Demon Trail along Lake McKerrow is rugged and slow, with roots, mud, and exposure to wet weather; many guided parties jet boat the lake to skip that section.

Tips: waterproof boots and reliable rain gear are non-negotiable. Allow extra time if it’s been raining—roots, mud, and swollen side streams slow things down. Swing bridges and boardwalks help in spots, but self-sufficiency is key in this very remote corner. Huts along this stretch include Hokuri Hut, Demon Trail Hut, and Martins Bay Hut; book if you plan to overnight.

Best time to hike: it’s open year-round thanks to its low elevation. Late summer into autumn (February–April) usually brings more settled weather, but Fiordland will still throw rain at you any month. If you’re after coastal wildlife and easier travel, time your walk for calmer spells and daylight to explore Martins Bay as well.

Bottom line: if you’re already at Martins Bay on the Hollyford Track, this is a worthwhile, short detour that trades big views for atmosphere and history. If you hate mud or need an easy tourist stroll, look elsewhere; if you like remote stories in wild rainforest, you’ll be into it.