Place · 3.9 mi away
This is the mellow, scenic section of the Hollyford corridor that most people mean when they say “Lake Alabaster Track.” It follows the valley floor to Whakatipu Ka Tuku / Lake Alabaster Hut on the lake’s southern shore, threading through dripping beech forest with regular peeks to the water and steep, jungle-clad walls. Expect classic Fiordland: moss, ferns, big trees—and big silence.
Length-wise, think 7.4 miles (12 km) one way between Hidden Falls Hut and Lake Alabaster Hut. Many hikers do it as an out-and-back to the lakeside hut, or fold it into a longer Hollyford or Pyke–Big Bay mission. Plan around 3 hours one way at a steady pace. The track is generally well formed and maintained to “easier Hollyford” standards, with gentle grades, but it can be muddy and rooty after rain.
What you’ll see: a long, glacial lake framed by steep mountains, lush rainforest, and mirror-still water on calm days. Birdlife is lively—keep an ear out for tui and fantails, and eyes up for kea or kaka overhead. Swing bridges and river flats add variety without upping the stress.
Why hike this: it’s a true Fiordland wilderness hit without the Great Walk crowds. Lake Alabaster Hut is a sweet payoff and a logical turnaround or overnight. If you intend to continue beyond Alabaster toward Lake McKerrow, know the character changes fast—the “Demon Trail” is much rougher and slower than the approach to Alabaster.
Best time to hike: Fiordland is wet year-round, but late summer into early autumn (February–April) tends to bring the most settled conditions. A popular guided season also runs through the warmer months, which hints at the broader window. Start early for calmer water and softer forest light; afternoons can cloud up. Regardless of month, pack for rapid weather shifts.
Tips: bring serious sandfly repellent (they’re notorious at the hut and shore), waterproof boots for boggy sections, and full self-sufficiency—there’s no cell coverage or services. Book the hut if you’re staying over in peak season. A map or GPS is smart if your plans go beyond the maintained corridor.
Pros
- Well-maintained approach to a remote-feeling lakeside hut
- Real Fiordland scenery without Great Walk crowds
Cons
- Sandflies are fierce at the hut and lakeshore
- Track turns much rougher if you continue beyond Alabaster
Parking
Park at the Hollyford Track road end on Hollyford Road; follow the track toward Hidden Falls Hut and continue to Lake Alabaster Hut.
Caution
Expect mud and bog after rain, minor stream crossings, and relentless sandflies. Weather changes fast and there’s no cell service. Beyond Lake Alabaster the route becomes significantly rougher (Demon Trail).
