Feel the Earnslaw burn

A challenging track is rewarded by icefall views in Glenorchy.

At the end of a long and winding road from Queenstown, at the head of Lake Wakatipu, lies Glenorchy. This pretty town is the gateway to many wonderful walks, including local favourite: the Earnslaw Burn Track.

This challenging track requires a good pair of walking boots – and a good pair of walking legs. It’s a one-way track through native bush to jaw-dropping views of an icefall on Mt Earnslaw/Pikirakatahi.

After a short slog uphill, you’ll plunge into native bush which covers most of the track – this walk is great for a hot-weather weekend as you’ll be shaded from the worst of the heat until the afternoon.

Significant treefall in 2016 has altered the track – you’ll need to keep a sharp eye out for orange arrow markers and limbo underneath or straddle and slide over the top of trees which cover the track. Be prepared to get your feet wet too; springs of fresh water cross the track. Cheeky South Island robins, fantails and other native birds will hop alongside and follow your progress.

Eventually, the trees give way to tussock and a glimpse of the icefall. There’s a few different places to camp, complete with stone fire circles, but the closer you get to Pikirakatahi, the more rewarding the views.

The impressive icefall is popular with local sightseeing helicopter companies, but by late afternoon the area is yours to enjoy. Towering waterfalls crash down from the icefall. The sun sets behind the peaks and the top of the icefall is magically illuminated by the last of the sun. On a clear night, the stars shine brightly and in summer, the quiet nights are punctuated by the boom of small, distant avalanches. Pack plenty of warm clothes as it gets cold after dark (my tent has iced over in early autumn). As challenging as it is rewarding, the Earnslaw Burn Track offers a very special experience

for the keen adventurer. g