Lakehead Track

Overview

This is the classic walk up the eastern shore of Lake Rotoiti from Kerr Bay to Lakehead Hut. It’s a mostly gentle, benched track through tall beech forest with frequent peeks to the lake and the surrounding ranges. Plan on 5.7–5.9 miles one way (about 9–9.5 km) and 2.5–3 hours at a steady pace; double that if you’re doing it out-and-back in a day.

What you’ll see

Expect a green-on-green tunnel of beech with mossy floor and ferny edges, punctuated by shingle beachlets and big-water views. In summer, red rātā blooms pop against the canopy. About two‑thirds of the way in, watch for a rare stand of rimu beside the track. Birdlife is a highlight—tūī and bellbirds are the main soundtrack, with fantails and tomtits flitting about and the chance of kākā overhead. The valley opens near the lake head with views up the Travers.

Trail notes

Underfoot is generally easy, but there are two unbridged streams that can be awkward after heavy rain, plus occasional rocky or old streambed patches. It’s not strenuous, just long if you return the same way. Freezing conditions can occur any time of year, even at lake level, so pack warm, waterproof layers.

Options and extensions

Lakehead Hut is the usual turnaround or a comfortable overnight. If river levels are low you can ford the Travers opposite the hut to reach Coldwater Hut in about 50 minutes; otherwise continue 1 h 30 min up-valley to the swingbridge and loop back (roughly 3 hours Lakehead → Coldwater via the bridge). You can also take a water taxi one way to or from Lakehead or Coldwater to turn this into a shorter point‑to‑point. If you’re keen on a full circuit flavor and a waterfall, the western shore leg includes a side trip to Whisky Falls.

Best time to hike

November–April brings the most settled weather and comfortable temps, with December–March offering the warmest days. Summer light is lovely on the lake in the morning and late afternoon. It’s walkable year‑round, but winter days are short and frosty. Expect more people around school and public holidays—Lakehead Hut can fill.

Practicalities and low‑key gotchas

Sandflies are persistent around the lake; cover up and use repellent. Wasps are a known hazard from December to April—carry antihistamine if you’re allergic. There are no rubbish facilities, so pack everything out. To help stop the spread of the invasive lindavia (“lake snow”), arrive with gear fully dry for 48 hours before using it in alpine waters; use the cleaning station at Lakehead Hut for any wet gear. Drones require a permit. No pets.

Getting there

Start at Kerr Bay in St Arnaud. The campground sits beside the track start and makes parking straightforward; if you’re security‑minded, there’s also a DOC car park on Ward Street in the village.