Kerin Forks Hut

Overview

Kerin Forks Hut is a serviced, 10‑bunk backcountry hut built in 1983 on the Makarora/Wānaka side of the park. It sits around 342 m in a broad valley setting and makes a handy overnight for the Gillespie Pass Track and Wilkin Valley trips. Expect classic backcountry simplicity with a few comforts and a great outlook from the refreshed deck.

Getting There

• From SH6 (Haast Highway) via the Gillespie Pass Track: 4–5 hours (~15 km).
• From Siberia Hut: 2–3 hours (~7 km).
• From Top Forks Hut via Wilkin Valley tracks: 7–10 hours.

Facilities and What to Bring

On site you’ll get mattresses, a wood burner for heating, a toilet, and a roof‑fed water tank. Bring your own sleeping bag, stove and fuel (no cookers provided), pots/utensils, toilet paper, rubbish bags to pack everything out, fire starter/matches, and a torch/headlamp.

Fees and How Payment Works

This is a serviced hut. Fees are: Adults $25/night; Youth (5–17) $12.50; Under‑5s free. Pay with Serviced Hut Tickets (drop them in the honesty box) or use a Backcountry Hut Pass for 12 months of access to most serviced/standard huts. It’s first‑come, first‑served—no bookings.

Seasonality and Crowd Factor

It’s popular from December through after Easter. During this peak period, carry a tent or roll mat as backup in case bunks are taken. Outside those months it’s often quieter than nearby huts, but don’t bank on emptiness in good weather.

Recent Notes

Users in 2025 reported a spruce‑up via the Backcountry Trust, including a refreshed deck with views down the valley. One April 2025 comment noted a grotty toilet and a broken seat—expect typical backcountry variability.

Best Time to Visit

If you want a higher chance of an empty bunk, aim for shoulder periods outside December–Easter or arrive earlier in the day. For comfort, longer summer daylight helps with travel times; in any season, start early enough to make the DOC time estimates with margin.