Travers-Sabine Circuit

Start at the eastern end of Kerr Bay on Lake Rotoiti and follow Lakehead Track through beech forest, across shallow streams and shingle fans, and past small lakeside beaches. The track reaches the grassy flats at the head of the lake and Lakehead Hut before turning inland up the Travers Valley. This opening section is gentler than the pass ahead, but it is still a substantial walk to the first hut.

Follow the river valley toward John Tait Hut, then climb beyond the hut toward Cupola Creek. A signed side track leads to Travers Falls, a 20 m cascade dropping into a deep pool. The climb continues through scree and stunted forest before easing onto the broad tussock flat where Upper Travers Hut sits below Mount Travers. This is the last hut before the alpine crossing.

The saddle is about 1,787 m high and roughly 450 m above Upper Travers Hut. The route climbs steep scree in zigzags, then reaches a more open crest with wide views. Beyond it, the descent toward the Sabine forks is steep and loose in places, dropping about 1,000 m. This is the hardest stage: allow six to nine hours from Upper Travers Hut to West Sabine Hut, depending on conditions. October to May is usually the more favorable season, but snow can persist into late spring and the saddle can freeze at any time of year.

From West Sabine Hut, the route follows the river past open flats, leaves the gorge, then climbs and drops back toward the water before reaching Sabine Hut above Lake Rotoroa. The hut’s lakeside setting is a welcome pause after the pass. The full circuit continues toward Speargrass rather than taking the alternate route to Rotoroa village.

From Sabine Hut, climb to Howard Saddle, then traverse small valleys and wetland before descending to Speargrass Hut. Look for the dark, twisted kaikawaka among the wetlands. After the hut, cross Te Horowai/Speargrass Creek and follow the forest track toward Mount Robert car park. The final walk follows Mount Robert Road down to St Arnaud, then the village roads back to Kerr Bay to close the circuit.

This is an advanced tramping track. Most rivers are bridged, but streams can become unsafe after heavy rain. The Travers Saddle can freeze year-round; winter and spring crossings may require mountaineering equipment and experience. Check the full route and weather, carry a map and compass you can use, and plan each day around booked huts. There is no dog access on the circuit.