Copland Track

Stretching into the heart of the Southern Alps, the Copland Track is a classic West Coast backcountry tramp that rewards with steaming hot pools and glacier views. This 3–4 day walk follows the Copland River through lush beech forest, past avalanche paths, and up to Welcome Flat Hut, where natural hot springs soak tired legs under a canopy of stars. Beyond the hut, the track climbs to the Copland Pass, offering jaw-dropping vistas of the Tasman Glacier and Aoraki/Mount Cook. It's a challenging, muddy, and utterly unforgettable journey into New Zealand's wildest landscapes.

Highlights & What to See

• Welcome Flat Hot Pools: Natural rock-lined hot pools beside the river, perfect for a post-hike soak surrounded by alpine scenery.
• Copland Pass: A steep, exposed scramble (only for experienced, well-equipped trampers) with panoramic views of the Southern Alps and Tasman Glacier.
• Beech Forest & Swingbridges: The track winds through ancient silver beech forest and crosses several swingbridges over milky rivers.
• Alpine Meadows & Glaciers: Above the bushline, spot alpine flowers, kea (mountain parrots), and hanging glaciers.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most trampers allow 3 days/2 nights: day one walks from the road end to Welcome Flat Hut (6–7 hours), day two explores the upper valley or attempts the pass, and day three returns. Fit parties can do it in 2 days, but the hot pools are worth a night. Book huts in advance via the Department of Conservation (DOC).

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Haast: The gateway town, with the Haast Visitor Centre, wild beaches, and the Haast River.
• Fox & Franz Josef Glaciers: Iconic glaciers with guided walks and heli-hikes, about 1–2 hours north.
• Lake Matheson: Mirror-like lake with reflections of Aoraki/Mount Cook, near Fox Glacier.
• Jackson Bay: A remote coastal settlement with a historic wharf and excellent whitebait fritters.

Please check official sources for current details.