Routes — Mackinnon Pass

The toughest day on the Track, crossing the Mackinnon, can also be the highlight — if you get some clear weather.

A series of switchbacks, some very long, leading up to the Pass can be challenging — though the ascent is far easier than the descent. Wind, rain and even snow can slow your progress.

On the way up everyone hopes to enjoy & photograph enchanted views back to the Clinton valley & forward to Arthur valley.

Many hikers unfortunately must slog through the fog on the Pass disappointed they cannot wait another day for the weather to clear.

However, you actually get 2 chances to see the views from Makinnon. Here is the strategy:

Day 2 ... if the weather is reasonable

• get an early start departing Clinton hut
• drop your pack at Mintaro hut
• dash up to Mackinnon (2 hours) with a day pack and some food
• surprisingly few hikers make the day hike to the Pass
• enjoy!

A stone cairn at the top, the Quintin Mackinnon monument, is a welcome sight.

On either end of the saddle are Mt. Hart and Mt. Balloon. You are allowed to scramble part way up Mount Hart for some good views of the Pass saddle. Be careful as it is steep.

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Pass Hut is a refuge for those who do not get good weather. It blew down twice (so far) in 1928 and 1947. Guided hikers are handed hot drinks on arrival — independent hikers have a separate area in the hut where they must fend for themselves.

The highest point on the Pass is 1154m close to Mt Balloon.

Mackinnon pass named after Quinton Mackinnnon, a Scot, son of a Presbyterian minister, who was hired to blaze the route up the Clinton river. He was the first Milford Track guide.

A statue of Mackinnon stands near the DOC centre in Te Anau.

More Mackinnon Pass photos.