Mt Aitken Track

Point of Interest

Contact

Arthur's Pass, South Island.

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Description

The track passes an old pipeline that fed an electricity generator used during the rail tunnel construction, then climbs steeply to the bush line. Advanced: Tramping track - 3 hr 30 min to bush line. Start on the Devils Punchbowl Walking Track at the northern end of Arthur's Pass village, just off SH73. The turnoff is signposted 15 min up the Devils Punchbowl Walking Track. Dogs are not permitted. Take a compass and map and know how to use them. Conditions can change rapidly and you may need these for navigation if visibility deteriorates unexpectedly. Do not proceed above the bush line on to the open tops unless you have sturdy footwear, a waterproof parka and spare warm clothing including warm headwear and gloves. Check the Arthur's Pass National Park weather forecast before you go. Walking above the bush line is recommended only in good weather conditions as you need good visibility to find your way. Above the bush line you are very exposed to the severity of the mountain weather. If it is raining, stormy or there is low cloud around the mountains, there will probably be no views above the bush line, and conditions will be unpleasant at best and dangerous at worst. When snow covers the ground, routes will be less obvious and there may also be a danger of avalanches and ice - mountaineering equipment is recommended and you will need to have the skills to assess avalanche risk. Routes above the bush line are not marked and are recommended for experienced alpine trampers or mountaineers only. Before you go into the outdoors, tell someone your plans and leave a date to raise the alarm if you haven't returned.

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Features

Location

Lat: -42.933996 Lng: 171.564413