Fern Burn Track

• Lower flats: the route follows the true right of the Fern Burn through riparian shrubland and grassy flats, which can be muddy.
• Gorge and forest: it climbs through mountain, silver and red beech, with narrow sidles, roots, cascades and waterfalls. Some drop-offs are beside the track.
• Upland approach: the Motatapu Track continues through open tussock to Fern Burn Hut. The route is exposed to wind and weather above the bush edge. Elevation samples along the mapped corridor run from about 337 m at the carpark to 747 m at the hut approach; Fern Burn Hut is mapped at about 760 m.

Fern Burn Hut is a standard 12-bunk hut with mattresses, tables/benches, untreated rainwater and a long-drop toilet. There is no fireplace, heating, cooking gear, lighting or bedding, so bring a stove, fuel, headlamp and sleeping kit. Bookings are not required; it is first-come, first-served, but hut fees apply through hut tickets or a Backcountry Hut Pass. Strong parties can continue about 6 km to Highland Creek Hut, a more arduous section and a different destination.

Public access crosses Motatapu Station under an easement: stay on the marked route and obey signs. The track is narrow and physically challenging in places, with steep terrain, drop-offs and unbridged stream crossings. Do not cross flooded water or continue when conditions are unsafe. DOC also identifies avalanche terrain that can affect sections of the wider Motatapu Track, usually from May into November. Go in settled weather and carry warm, windproof clothing and suitable footwear.

From Wānaka, turn onto the road to the Matukituki Valley at Glendhu Bay, about 12 km from Wānaka. The signed Fern Burn carpark and track start are on Motatapu Road; the access road is gravel.