Pyke–Big Bay Route

Why go

If you crave true Fiordland wilderness—wetlands, big beech forest, remote lakes, and a thundering West Coast beach—this route delivers. It’s committing, rough, and quiet. You’ll follow an old stock route through tussock and flax flats, cross serious rivers, swing over the Olivine via a cableway, and finish at the lonely sands of Big Bay.

Route overview

The core section runs roughly 22.4 miles (36 km) one way between Olivine Hut and Big Bay Hut. Most parties take 9–14 hours of tramping time split over two days. Expect overgrown stretches, flood-damaged markers, mud, and unformed track. Several rivers—especially the Diorite, Barrier, and Pyke—are unbridged and may be impassable after rain. Inland near Long Reef is reported rough; many opt for the coast between Martins Bay and Big Bay instead, but only around low tide and when seas are calm.

Scenery and feel

It’s classic Fiordland: tall beech forest, alluvial river flats, and tussock wetlands opening to sweeping vistas. Lake Wilmot sits in the bushy interior and feels properly remote. Out at Big Bay (Awarua Bay), the surf pounds an empty beach—wild, beautiful, and exposed.

Huts and camping

Big Bay Hut is a standard hut (9 bunks) with heating, basic mattresses, non‑flush toilets, and untreated water—boil it. Olivine Hut and Big Bay Hut are first‑come/first‑served. Wild camping on open flats is possible; follow Leave No Trace.

Hazards and navigation

This is an expert route. Flooded flats and dense bush swallow track lines; markers can be missing. Rivers rise fast after rain and can shut the route down. Coastal travel between Martins Bay and Big Bay should be timed to within about two hours either side of low tide and only in calm conditions. Sandflies are fierce around rivers and the coast.

Logistics and access

On-foot access commonly links via the Hollyford Valley (Hollyford Track) to Martins Bay, then on to Big Bay or up the Pyke; some parties use helicopter access. Carry proper maps, compass and/or GPS—do not rely on markers alone. Check weather and river conditions at the last reliable point before committing.

Best time to hike

Summer into early autumn (December–April) typically offers lower rivers and more stable weather. Even then, build in tide windows for the coast and avoid/retreat after heavy rain. This is not a Great Walk—go only with solid navigation and river-crossing skills.