Kea Basin Track

Overview

A committing valley-to-basin adventure to lush sub‑alpine meadows beneath Mt Earnslaw/Pikirakatahi. Expect waterfalls, hanging glacier views, and a stout climb on a cut, zig‑zagging track. From Muddy Creek carpark it’s roughly 24 km total (out-and-back, including the valley approach) with about 600 m of gain, typically 8–10 hours return. Many trampers turn it into an overnight using the rock bivvy or the ultra‑basic Earnslaw Hut.

Approach and Route

Drive the gravel Rees Valley Road to Muddy Creek carpark (about 30 minutes from Glenorchy). The road has fords that can become impassable after rain. On foot, follow the Rees valley either on the marked Rees Track (boggy in places, swing bridge over Twenty Five Mile Creek, then a ford of the Rees) or the faster 4WD flats (usually more river crossings). The Kea Basin Track begins on low terraces north of Lennox Falls at the bush edge—watch for markers.

The climb is mercifully switchbacked through beech forest. Partway up, a short signed detour reaches Earnslaw Hut (4 bunks, fireplace, no mattresses, no toilet; water from a nearby stream). Above the bushline the track tips you into Kea Basin, where a well‑used rock bivvy sits just as you break out of the trees. In fine weather, confident parties sometimes poke higher toward an “upper bivy” and the mountaineering route toward Esquilant Bivvy and Mt Earnslaw; beyond the basin the terrain steepens and becomes alpine—only for those with the skills.

What Makes It Worth It

This one delivers big scenery for the effort: expansive Rees Valley views framed by waterfalls and tussock slopes, plus close‑up glacier drama once you’re in the basin. The historical Earnslaw Hut and the natural rock shelters add a dose of old‑school tramping character you won’t find on many front‑country walks.

Best Time to Hike

Go in settled summer to early autumn conditions. From roughly May to November, avalanche paths can cross sections of the route; avoid avalanche season unless you have the training and gear. Skip this trip after heavy rain—the Rees River and the road fords rise fast. Start early to make the most of daylight and firmer morning river levels.

Practical Tips

• River crossings are a feature, not a bug—only go if you have solid river‑crossing skills and judgment. If in doubt, don’t cross.
• Toilets exist at Muddy Creek carpark; there are none at Earnslaw Hut, the bivvies, or in the basin—pack out all waste.
• Expect some boggy flats, occasional windfall or old slips, enthusiastic sandflies, and variable marking higher up; carry a map/app, know how to follow cairns, and bring a PLB.
• Experienced 4WD drivers sometimes continue beyond Muddy Creek toward Arthur’s Creek to trim about 4 km return, but fords can wash out and strand vehicles—treat this as a fair‑weather bonus, not a plan.