Routes — Mintaro Hut

If the weather is good, get an early start departing Clinton en route to Mintaro. You may want time in the afternoon to climb Mackinnon Pass with a daypack.

(If the weather is bad, no rush, as this is an easy hiking day.)

A landslip in 1982 created a lake that drowned many trees.

There is a nice spot where guided hikers stop for lunch near Hirere Falls. Independent hikers can stop & take a look, however.

Hiere Shelter (private)

Even more photogenic is Hidden Lake. You can get close to a powerful waterfall.

Another unique feature Day 2 is the Prairies. Some claim this is the place for a swim — as the water here is slightly less freezing.

You pass the Bus Stop Shelter & private Pomplona Hut (for guided hikers) — then 3.5km further to Mintaro Hut.

Mintaro Hut

This spot was called Lake Beautiful by Mackinnon but was later renamed Mintaro (Spanish for resting place).

From Mintaro it is 90 minutes or 2 hours (depending on weather) up to the top of Mackinnon Pass. Go for it if you have the time, the energy, & good weather.