Greenstone and Caples Tracks facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Greenstone and Caples Tracks |
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Lake Rere on the Greenstone Track
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| Length | 61 km (38 mi) |
| Location | Fiordland National Park, New Zealand |
| Trailheads | Greenstone carpark, The Divide |
| Use | Tramping, Trail running |
| Highest point | 945 m (3,100 ft), McKellar Saddle |
| Lowest point | Greenstone carpark, 477 m (1,565 ft) |
| Difficulty | medium |
| Season | Spring to Autumn (open all year) |
| Months | late October to mid April |
| Sights | Alpine views, lakes, forests, tussocklands, rivers |
| Hazards | Hypothermia, high winds, rocks, roots, snow, rain, avalanche |
| Surface | dirt, rock, roots |
| Website | Department of Conservation |
The Greenstone and Caples Tracks are a famous hiking loop in the South Island of New Zealand. This amazing journey is about 61 kilometers long. It's a great place for a long walk or even trail running.
The tracks are linked by a spot called McKellar Saddle. You can hike each track on its own, or combine them for a longer adventure. This loop also connects to other cool trails. One of these is the Routeburn Track, which is a very popular "New Zealand Great Walk." The area is part of the Te Wāhipounamu/South-West New Zealand World Heritage Area. This means it's a special place protected by the world!
About the Tracks
The Caples Track follows the Caples River through the Caples Valley. The Greenstone Track follows the Greenstone River in the Greenstone Valley. These valleys are mostly owned by a local Māori tribe called the Ngāi Tahu.
Most of the tracks are in the Greenstone and Caples Conservation Areas. Some parts are also in the Fiordland National Park, especially around Lake McKellar. Even though some land is privately owned, the whole track is open for everyone to enjoy. Just remember to be respectful and not disturb any farm animals.
Huts for Hikers
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Greenstone Hut
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McKellar Hut
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Upper Caples Hut (private)
When you're hiking these tracks, you'll find places to stay overnight called huts. There are three public huts you can use:
- Greenstone Hut
- McKellar Hut
- Mid Caples Hut
There are also some private huts and huts used by hunters. These include the Mid Greenstone Hut and the Upper Caples Hut.
The Greenstone Hut is a good starting point if you want to explore the Mavora Lakes Conservation Park. If you're looking to connect to the Routeburn Track, the McKellar Hut is nearby. These huts offer a safe and cozy place to rest during your adventure.
Images for kids
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Caples river as viewed from the track
