Isthmus Peak Track
Located in Wānaka area in the Otago region
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Introduction
Walk or mountain bike this track to Isthmus Peak (1385 m) and cross the undulating skyline ridge.The track overlooks Lake Wānaka and Lake Hāwea, with great views of the Southern Alps/Kā Tiritiri o te Moana.
16 km return via same track
Mountain biking
Expert: Grade 5Seasonal restrictions
November to December – These tracks are annually closed for fawning between 20 November and 20 December.
March to May – Safari hunting takes place on Glen Dene Station. Be alert and stay visible, especially during the March to May roar hunting season.
Dog access
Image gallery
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Admiring winter views from Isthmus Peak Image: Trevor Geddes | DOC
![Admiring winter views from Isthmus Peak]( "Admiring winter views from Isthmus Peak")
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Lake Hāwea with views of the Hunter Valley and Dingleburn Stations Image: Trevor Geddes | DOC
![Lake Hāwea with views of the Hunter Valley and Dingleburn Stations]( "Lake Hāwea with views of the Hunter Valley and Dingleburn Stations")
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Towards Makarora, Head of Lake Wanaka Image: Trevor Geddes | DOC
![Towards Makarora, Head of Lake Wanaka]( "Towards Makarora, Head of Lake Wanaka")
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Lake Wanaka showing Mou Waho Island Image: Trevor Geddes | DOC
![Lake Wanaka showing Mou Waho Island]( "Lake Wanaka showing Mou Waho Island")
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Ridgeline track leading to Matatiaho Conservation Area Image: Trevor Geddes | DOC
![Ridgeline track leading to Matatiaho Conservation Area]( "Ridgeline track leading to Matatiaho Conservation Area")
From the carpark, follow the poled route on the true right of Stewart Creek, until it joins a 4WD track. From here a steep, rocky climb winds upwards to a skyline ridge.
You can mountain bike these tracks but on many sections you will have to dismount and push your bike.
On reaching the ridge, a sign points to the Isthmus Peak Track on the right, and on the left, the Glen Dene Track takes you into the Matatiaho Conservation Area. The Glen Dene Track along the tops traverses a number of unnamed peaks.
Stewart Creek carpark is off SH6, north of Lake Hāwea township and 30 minutes drive from Wanaka.
Take care parking and crossing the road – this is a busy carpark beside the highway.
Your safety is your responsibility. Stay safe in the outdoors and follow the five essential steps of the Land Safety Code.
Adverse weather
The weather can change rapidly in New Zealand. Hypothermia is a real risk even in summer. Be prepared by having warm, waterproof, windproof clothing and the appropriate footwear. Whiteout conditions caused by snow or low cloud may be present. Check the Mount Aspiring National Park weather forecast – NIWA website.
Be avalanche alert
This area has terrain that can produce avalanches that cross the track, usually from May into November. View avalanche information and the terrain rating for this track.
Private property and permissions
This track crosses private land. There is no camping until the conservation area boundary.
Respect the landowner's livestock and property:
- stay on the marked track until you reach the conservation land
- leave gates as you find them
- use stiles where provided
- keep your distance from livestock
Stay safe in the outdoors
- Choose the right trip for you. Learn about the route and make sure you have the skills for it.
- Understand the weather. Check weather forecasts.
- Pack warm clothes and extra food. Check gear lists.
- Share your plans and take ways to get help. Share directly or use the Outdoor Intentions form or Plan My Walk. Take a distress beacon.
- Take care of yourself and each other.
Contacts
| Wānaka Tititea/Mount Aspiring National Park Visitor Centre | |
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| Phone | +64 3 443 7660 |
| wanakavc@doc.govt.nz | |
| Address | 1 Ballantyne Road Wanaka 9305 |
| Hours | Visitor centre hours and services |