Rees Dart Track

The Rees Dart Track is a four-to-five-day alpine circuit in Mount Aspiring National Park, offering a true wilderness experience with dramatic river valleys, glacier-carved landscapes, and mountain passes. This track is less crowded than the Routeburn, yet equally rewarding for experienced trampers seeking solitude and raw natural beauty.

Highlights & What to See

• Rees Valley: Follow the Rees River through beech forest and open tussock flats, with views of the Humboldt Mountains and the Rees Saddle.
• Dart Valley: Descend into the Dart Valley, where the river glows milky turquoise from glacial silt, and the scenery is dominated by towering peaks like Mount Aspiring.
• Rees Saddle: The highest point on the track (1,400 m), offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.
• Shelter Rock Hut and Dart Hut: Well-maintained backcountry huts with basic facilities, set in stunning locations beside rivers or tarns.
• Glacier Views: From the Dart Valley, spot the Dart Glacier and other ice formations cascading down the mountainsides.
• Wildlife: Keep an eye out for kea, South Island robins, and the occasional red deer.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most trampers complete the Rees Dart Track in 4 days, walking 6–8 hours each day. This allows time to enjoy the scenery, take side trips (like to the Dart Glacier), and stay overnight at the huts. A 5-day itinerary is ideal if you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to explore side valleys. The track is not recommended for day walks due to its length and remote nature; it's best as a multi-day tramp.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Glenorchy: The gateway town to the Rees Dart, with its iconic lakefront, café scene, and access to other walks like the Routeburn Track.
• Routeburn Track: A more famous Great Walk that can be combined for a longer adventure, though it requires separate booking.
• Queenstown: A 45-minute drive from Glenorchy, offering dining, adventure sports, and lake cruises.
• Mount Aspiring National Park: Explore other tracks like the Cascade Saddle or the Rob Roy Glacier Track for day hikes.
• Wanaka: A scenic drive over the Crown Range, with its own lakeside charm and hiking options.

Please check official sources for current details.