Wills Valley Track
Located in Makarora area and Mount Aspiring National Park in the West Coast region
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Introduction
This track is for experienced trampers and starts at the Gates of Haast Bridge. Like most of the smaller valleys in this area, the Wills’ lower reaches are gorged, and then open out to flats further up.7.5 km one way
Dog access
The entry point for this track is located at the Gates of Haast Bridge off State Highway 6.
A large, unstable, active slip must be crossed to reach the start of the track at the bush edge. Avoiding the sting of native nettle, follow the old bridle trail for about 10 min.
The track branches off to climb, then sidle, above the western side of Wills Gorge until reaching a smaller slip. To keep on the track, stay high on the slip to reach a steel ladder that climbs a small rock bluff.
The track continues climbing steadily through the forest, before dropping down to a large, grassy river flat on the true right of the river where the marked track ends. The four-bunk Wills Hut is about 40 min from the start of this flat on the true left of the river on a small terrace close to the bush edge.
Avalanche risk
This area has terrain that can produce avalanches that cross the track, usually from May into November. View avalanche information.
Stay safe when crossing rivers
If you plan to cross unbridged rivers, know how to cross safely and be prepared for if you cannot cross.
Do not cross if the river is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop. If in doubt, stay out.
No visitor centre in Makarora
Contact the Awarua/Haast or Tititea/Mount Aspiring National Park visitor centres instead.
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 Wānaka 9305 |
| Hours | Visitor centre hours and services |