Pipson Creek Viewpoint

Quick perch over Pipson Creek on the steep Mt Shrimpton climb

InsideMount Aspiring National Park

Overview

A small, natural perch on the Mount Shrimpton Track above Makarora, Pipson Creek Viewpoint is a quick reward before the trail’s serious climbing begins. It’s an informal stop—no railings or platforms—just a lovely glimpse up Pipson Creek toward Mt Shrimpton and across the Makarora valley.

Getting There

Start from the Mount Shrimpton Track car park on SH6 near Makarora. The viewpoint comes shortly after the track meets Pipson Creek—about 20–30 minutes from the trailhead—right before the main climb kicks in. There are no built structures at the viewpoint itself.

What You’ll See

Expect a classic beech-forest approach opening to a photo-friendly angle over Pipson Creek, with higher country and Mt Shrimpton looming above. Continue higher on the same track and the vistas expand to basins and ranges around the Makarora valley; this early lookout is the easy taster.

Track Difficulty & Safety

DOC classifies the Mount Shrimpton Track as an advanced route. It steepens considerably past this viewpoint, with rough, rooty and rocky sections, and becomes exposed and more technical above the bushline. If you’re only after a short scenic stop, turn around here. In spring and winter conditions, treat the upper route as avalanche terrain; start early to avoid afternoon warming, delay after storms, and avoid traveling beneath steep slopes. A solid overnight freeze greatly improves stability.

Facilities

DOC does not list toilets at the Mount Shrimpton car park. The nearest public facilities are in Makarora township, or at the Blue Pools car park to the north. Parking at the Mount Shrimpton trailhead is limited and informal.

Wildlife

On higher sections of this track, hikers often encounter kea—the inquisitive alpine parrot—along with small forest songbirds. Ground beetles and tussock country flora appear as you gain elevation.

Best Time to Visit

Go in settled weather. Aim for an early start; it helps with cooler conditions on the climb and, in spring, with firmer snow if you plan to go beyond the viewpoint. There are no formal hours.

Pros

Reached in about 20–30 minutes from the Mount Shrimpton trailhead
Pretty lookout over Pipson Creek toward Mt Shrimpton and the Makarora valley

Cons

No facilities and only a small, informal car park
On an advanced track; terrain steep and rough beyond the viewpoint

Tips

From the car park, expect 20–30 minutes to reach the viewpoint.
No toilets at the trailhead—use facilities in Makarora or at Blue Pools.
If continuing past the viewpoint, treat the route as advanced and exposed.
In spring, start early and avoid traveling beneath steep slopes due to avalanche risk.
Trekking poles and sturdy boots help on the steep, rooty bush sections.