Fern Burn Track

Overview

A classic Wānaka-area outing that feels wilder than its access suggests. The Fern Burn Track follows its namesake creek through beech forest before popping above treeline into open tussock en route to Fern Burn Hut. It’s 7 km one way (about 4.3 miles) to the hut, most often done either as a 14 km/8.7 mile out-and-back day walk or as a mellow first overnight. Expect roughly 3–4 hours to the hut and 6–8 hours return as a day.

Terrain and what you’ll see

• Lower flats: quick walking across open farmland beside the Fern Burn—fast but can be muddy.
• Gorge/forest: narrow benching through beech with plenty of roots, short ups and downs, and sections with steep drop‑offs. Footing gets slick after rain.
• Above treeline: undulating climbs through upland tussock to the hut—big sky, fully exposed to weather. Total elevation gain is roughly 468 m (about 1,535 ft) to the hut.

Hut and logistics

Fern Burn Hut is a standard 12‑bunk hut with mattresses, tables/benches, a rainwater tank (treat or boil), and a long‑drop toilet. There’s no fireplace, no heating, no cooking gear, no lighting, and no bedding—bring your own stove, fuel, headlamp, and sleeping kit. No bookings; first‑come, first‑served. Fees apply (use standard hut tickets or a Backcountry Hut Pass). It can be busy in summer and during the Te Araroa season. Public access crosses Motatapu Station—stay on the marked easement and obey signage. Strong parties can push on a further 6 km (4–5 hours) to Highland Creek Hut; this next leg is significantly more demanding.

Best time to hike

Go in settled, dry weather. After rain the forested sidles turn slick and the small stream crossings can rise. Above treeline there’s little shade and full exposure to wind. In winter the hut sits around 700 m—often snow‑free to the hut but still cold/icy; it’s a safer low‑elevation objective than higher alpine routes if you lack winter skills.

Tips

• Sturdy waterproof boots and gaiters shine here—expect roots, mud, and wet grass.
• Poles help on the slippery sidles.
• If overnighting: carry hut tickets or a pass, plus stove, fuel, and a headlamp. Treat all water.

Getting there

From Wānaka, drive about 20 minutes on Motatapu Road (gravel) to the signed car park roughly 3 km past Glendhu Bay Camp. Park on the right; the track starts on the left before the first bridge/ford.