Routes — Day 2 — Anchorage to Bark Bay (9.5km) <photos>

Departing Anchorage you have another easy day with good sidetrack options. No rush getting started in the morning though your departure time may be decided by the tides.

Most hikers want to cross Torrent Bay close to low tide.

Torrent Bay at low ebb

If you miss the tides, you may have to take an alternate route — a circumambulation of the bay.

It is interesting to examine boats moored in Torrent Bay left high & dry at low tide.

There is a campground at Torrent close to summer cottages. The view from your tent over the mud flats is a bit desolate at low tide. A public phone is available.

Our strong recommendation is a side trip to Cleopatra's Pool; a fresh water oasis in a lovely setting. This is a great stop for a splash & snack.

Cleopatra's Pool

Cleopatra's pool is perhaps a 25-minute one-way off the low tide route. Get directions at Anchorage. It is easy to find.

The adventurous can scramble further upstream to an even larger pool.

Another highlight of the day is the swing bridge over the largest river on the tramp, Falls River.

Time, energy & weather permitting, consider descending to Falls river, then scrambling upstream for 20 minutes or so to check out some waterfalls.

It is exciting to finally arrive at the hut after spotting buildings some distance away.

Bark Bay is a busy & lovely spot. Be sure to explore at low tide.

Bark Bay at low tide

The hut is basic.

Bark Bay campground provides 40 sites, the best on the sandy spit overlooking water. It is crowded & popular; if hiking in high season, arrive early enough to get a good spot.

Note: Consider another big side trip on this section — to the main falls of Falls River.

When departing Anchorage, instead of crossing the shortest route across Torrent Bay, take the longer all-tidal track. (You can get directions at Anchorage Hut.) At the signposted junction, go northwest up Tregidga Creek past Cascade Falls and on to Falls River. By scrambling another 15 minutes downstream you reach the main falls.

This adventure is bypassed by most hikers — count on 3 hours return for the side trip. (No need to carry your heavy pack. You could stash it near the main Track.)

Next day head for Awaroa.