North Borland Hut Track

North Borland Hut Track is an advanced, remote out-and-back through southern Fiordland, starting at the Borland Lodge gate and following the Borland Valley to the basic two-bunk North Borland Hut. Expect beech forest, mossy undergrowth, river terraces, limestone formations, a steep gorge section, and tussock and scrub near the hut.

From the Borland Road gate near Borland Lodge, follow the Borland Nature Walk across the Borland Burn suspension bridge, then take the signed North Borland Track. The route follows the river to the South Borland Track junction, continues along the Borland Burn terrace, and passes a large limestone Rock Bivvy with a pit toilet. About 15 minutes beyond the bivvy, the track crosses the Middle Branch of the Borland Burn before climbing above a gorge and continuing through forest to the North Borland Hut. Experienced trampers can continue beyond the hut toward Mt Titiroa or the Garnock Burn, but those are not part of this trail.

Access is via Borland Road in the Lake Monowai area, about 67 km from Te Anau. Borland Road may be closed, so check DOC access information before setting out. The track is remote and rough, with roots, mud, wet sections, steep ground, and river crossings. Water levels in the Middle Branch can rise rapidly after heavy rain. Fiordland weather changes quickly, mobile coverage is unreliable, and a personal locator beacon, navigation skills, warm waterproof layers, and full backcountry supplies are essential. Dogs are not permitted.

North Borland Hut is a basic two-bunk hut with a non-flush toilet and stream water. Treat water before drinking, and confirm current DOC hut information before an overnight trip.