Lakehead Hut

St Arnaud to Lakehead Hut/Coldwater Hut

Time: 3 hr

From Kerr Bay: Beginning at the eastern end of the bay, the Lakehead Track wanders through forest, crossing several shallow streams and shingle screes. Small beaches along the way offer picnicking opportunities and mountain views. At the head of Lake Rotoiti, the grassy flats of the lower Travers Valley greet you. Lakehead Hut is 15 min on from the jetty. From West Bay: Walk up Mount Robert Road to where the Lakeside Track descends to the lake edge through dense mānuka and kānuka forest. Follow the lake shore to Coldwater Hut, which is perched right on the water’s edge. The short diversion to Whisky Falls is worthwhile. Many trampers take a water taxi to the head of Lake Rotoiti to start their trip.

Lakehead Hut/Coldwater Hut to John Tait Hut

Time: 4 hr 30 min

From Lakehead or Coldwater huts, walk up the Travers River flats through forest and clearings. The track from Coldwater Hut passes the turn‑off to Rotomaninitua/Lake Angelus. After 1 hr 30 min of easy walking you’ll reach a swing bridge, beyond which the track continues on the west bank of the Travers River. Soon the valley narrows and walking becomes more varied, alternating between forested terraces and grassy river flats. Mount Travers can be glimpsed as the track nears Hopeless Creek. Cross the creek on a swing bridge. Soon you’ll leave the river and notice the gradient becoming steeper. As it eases, you’ll hear the river again, cross a few small creeks and suddenly emerge to the welcome sight of John Tait Hut at the head of a small clearing. Note: John Tait Hut is located below an avalanche path. Do not use the hut during storms or when the snow reaches the valley floor.

walk half the circuit by taking a water taxi to Lakehead Hut or Coldwater Hut and walking back to Kerr Bay

take 2 days and stay overnight in Lakehead Hut or Coldwater Hut

Beginning in Kerr Bay, take the Lakehead Track around the eastern shore and reach Lakehead Hut after about 3 hours.

If the Travers River is low, you can cross the river opposite the hut to get to Coldwater Hut (50 minutes); otherwise there is a swingbridge 1 hour 30 minutes further up the Travers Valley. From Lakehead Hut to Coldwater Hut via the swingbridge is 3 hours.