Gillespie Pass Circuit

Overview

A demanding 56–58 km (35–36 mi) TOTAL loop linking the Young, Siberia, and Wilkin valleys near Makarora. Expect steep climbs, unbridged river crossings, and huge Southern Alps views. Most parties take 3–4 days; adding the side trip to Crucible Lake makes a stellar 4‑day itinerary. Total ascent is roughly 2,280 m (7,480 ft).

Route at a glance

Clockwise is common. Day 1 goes from the Makarora/Young confluence to Young Hut (about 6–7 hr). Day 2 tackles the steep haul to ~1600 m over Gillespie Pass, then a knee‑testing descent to Siberia Hut (6–8 hr). From Siberia, many add Crucible Lake (4–5 hr return) before continuing down the Wilkin to exit on foot—or pre‑book a jet boat pickup to skip the long, flat Wilkin stretch.

What you’ll see

Beech forest in the valleys, alpine tussock and snow‑grass up high, and braided blue rivers threading the bottoms. The pass day serves up panoramas toward rugged peaks like Mount Awful (and Mount Dreadful). Crucible Lake is the fan‑favorite side trip—icy, vividly blue, ringed by steep walls—and you might spot the tiny rockwren/pīwauwau among boulders near the lake outlet.

Huts and camping

Two serviced huts anchor the circuit: Young Hut and Siberia Hut (advance bookings required in the main season). Young Forks offers a free, first‑come campsite with shelter and toilet. No camping is allowed around Young Hut or in Crucible Basin due to fragile terrain; camping near Siberia Hut is allowed with fees. Carry a tent even if you’ve booked—conditions and river levels change fast.

Hazards and skills

This is serious backcountry. All river crossings are unbridged and can become impassable after rain, including the Makarora at the very start/finish; there have been fatalities here. Use the Young River Link Track swing bridge or a jet boat if levels are up. On the pass day, fill bottles before leaving the valley—water can be scarce until well over the top. From May–November, expect snow/ice and avalanche risk on the pass and in Crucible Valley; winter travel is not recommended unless you have the skills and gear. Sandflies are notorious around huts and flats—cover up and bring repellent.

Logistics

Park at the hiker’s carpark in Makarora. The loop can start from either the Young or Wilkin confluences; jet boats service both, and some hikers fly into Siberia Valley and walk out. Note there’s no public access along the true right of the Makarora between the Young and Wilkin confluences. An unnamed creek near Siberia Hut can become uncrossable in heavy rain—build weather margins into your plan.

Best time to hike

The sweet spot is roughly December through April for longer days and lower avalanche hazard, but rapid weather changes are possible year‑round. Start the pass day early for firmer travel, clearer views, and safer river levels. This circuit sees steady but manageable traffic compared to the Great Walks—expect company at huts in peak summer, but plenty of quiet on the trail.

Trail tips

• Treat the Makarora crossing as a go/no‑go decision; if in doubt, wait, use the bridge option, or book a boat.
• Add the Crucible Lake day—it’s the headline extra.
• Dogs aren’t allowed in the national park.
• If you dislike endless flats at the end, pre‑arrange a jet boat out from Kerin Forks.