Liverpool Hut

Liverpool Track is best suited to experienced hikers who are comfortable with high, exposed and technical tracks. You can expect: • A steep, long climb from the valley floor to Liverpool Hut. At times you will be climbing up rocks and tree roots, pulling yourself up with your hands. • Steep and slippery terrain where a fall could cause serious injury. • Fast-changing alpine weather. If this doesn’t sound right for you, Aspiring Hut is an easier overnight trip in Mount Aspiring National Park. It has options for side trips further up the valley or to see the Rob Roy Glacier.

Aspiring Hut to Pearl Flat

Time: 1 hr 30 min

km The track enters the bush near Aspiring Hut. After 10 minutes a bridge crosses Cascade Creek, and a 1 km bush section emerges onto an open terrace leading to Shovel Flat. The track has eroded at the head of Shovel Flat. Proceed with caution and allow extra time. Follow the orange poles towards the bush, instead of following the riverbank. After 400 m, you will reach Pearl Flat. At Pearl Flat, turn off West Matukituki Track onto Liverpool Track, signposted to Liverpool Hut. Challenging avalanche terrain between Rough Creek (just beyond Aspiring Hut) and the intersection with the Liverpool Track can make travel hazardous from late autumn to early summer. Move quickly through this area and be vigilant. Avalanche debris may reach the valley floor at Shovel Flat, so do not camp there. The track has steep, rock slab terrain to navigate. Image: DOC

Pearl Flat to Liverpool Hut

Time: 2 hr - 2 hr 30 min

km From Pearl Flat, cross the swing bridge at Liverpool Stream. The track then leads up a long, steep and often slippery climb to the bushline. At the top of the bush, there is a rock slab to cross with a steep drop off on one side. This can be treacherous in wet or icy conditions – take care. Above the bushline, the track initially leads across steep exposed shingle, rock and tussock. The track then goes left up an easier tussock slope to reach a knoll overlooking the hut. Note: when the hut is first sighted, do not sidle across to the hut below this knoll as the terrain becomes extremely steep. Follow the poles to stay on the track. There is no track beyond Liverpool Hut.