New Zealand — Reefton
Lake Daniell Track: A moderate 11.5km day walk near Reefton, New Zealand, offering diverse Victoria Range landscapes. Traverse lush native forest, cross impressive rivers, and soak in panoramic views of Lake Daniell. This well-marked route provides a rewarding taste of the West Coast wilderness in 4-5 hours.
Distance: 11.5 km
Elevation Gain: 420 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 4-5 hours
The Lake Daniell Track offers a rewarding day walk through the diverse landscapes of the Victoria Range, culminating in the serene beauty of Lake Daniell. This track is a fantastic option for those seeking a moderate challenge with significant scenic payoff, featuring lush native forest, impressive river crossings, and panoramic views. It's an accessible adventure from Reefton, providing a taste of the West Coast's wild heart without the commitment of an overnight expedition. The trail is well-maintained, making it suitable for families and less experienced hikers, provided they are prepared for the elevation gain and potential for varied weather conditions.
The Lake Daniell Track is a classic West Coast day walk that encapsulates the region's natural allure. Starting from a well-marked trailhead, the path immediately immerses you in a temperate rainforest environment. Towering rimu, rata, and beech trees form a dense canopy, their branches often draped with moss and ferns, creating a cathedral-like atmosphere. The air is typically cool and damp, carrying the scent of earth and decaying leaves.
The initial section of the track involves a steady climb, gradually ascending through the forest. You'll cross several small streams and gullies, often via sturdy wooden bridges, which add to the sense of adventure. As you gain elevation, the forest begins to thin slightly, offering occasional glimpses through the trees of the surrounding hills and valleys. The sound of the nearby river, the Waitahu River, often accompanies you, its murmur growing louder as you approach its banks.
A significant feature of the track is the crossing of the Waitahu River. Depending on recent rainfall, this can be a swift-flowing waterway. The track utilises a substantial bridge to safely cross this river, providing a vantage point to appreciate the power and beauty of the water as it carves its way through the landscape. Beyond the river crossing, the gradient becomes more pronounced, leading you towards the higher reaches of the Victoria Range.
The final approach to Lake Daniell is marked by a change in vegetation, with more alpine shrubs and tussock appearing as the treeline recedes. The effort of the climb is rewarded with increasingly expansive views. Upon reaching the lake, you are greeted by a stunning vista of clear, deep blue water, often reflecting the surrounding mountains. Lake Daniell is nestled within a basin, offering a sense of seclusion and tranquility. The track continues around a portion of the lake, allowing for exploration and enjoyment of the peaceful surroundings before you retrace your steps back to the trailhead.
The moderate difficulty rating is due to the sustained elevation gain and the length of the walk. While there are no technical climbing sections, consistent effort is required. The track surface is generally well-maintained, but can be muddy and slippery in places, especially after rain. The West Coast's weather is famously changeable, so visitors should be prepared for sun, rain, and wind, often within the same day.
The area surrounding Lake Daniell has a rich history, deeply intertwined with the natural resources and the indigenous Māori people of New Zealand. For centuries, Māori have traversed these lands, utilising the forests for food, shelter, and materials. The West Coast, known as Te Tai Poutini, holds significant cultural importance, with stories and traditions passed down through generations connected to the mountains, rivers, and coastlines.
European settlement in the Reefton area began in earnest during the gold rushes of the 1860s. While the primary focus was on gold mining, the surrounding forests provided essential timber for construction and fuel. The development of tracks and access routes, like the one leading towards Lake Daniell, was often driven by the need to access natural resources or to explore the potential for further settlement and industry.
The Lake Daniell Track itself, as a designated walking route, was established to provide public access to the lake and its scenic beauty. Over time, it has become a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, offering a relatively accessible wilderness experience. The track's development and maintenance are managed by the Department of Conservation (DOC), ensuring its preservation for recreational use while protecting the unique ecological values of the Victoria Range.
The area's geological history is also significant, with the Victoria Range being part of the Alpine Fault system. The dramatic landscapes, including the valleys and the formation of lakes like Daniell, are a testament to the powerful geological forces that have shaped New Zealand over millions of years. Understanding this history adds another layer of appreciation to the natural environment encountered on the track.
The Lake Daniell Track is accessible and enjoyable throughout the year, but the experience varies significantly with the seasons. The best time for most walkers is during the warmer months, from October to April, when the weather is generally more stable and the days are longer.
Spring (October–November): This period sees the forest come alive after winter. Native flowers begin to bloom, and bird activity increases. The weather can still be unpredictable, with occasional late frosts and rain showers, but the landscape is vibrant and fresh. The track may still be damp from winter snowmelt.
Summer (December–February): Summer offers the warmest temperatures and longest daylight hours, ideal for hiking. However, this is also the peak season for sandflies, particularly in damp, sheltered areas. While the track itself is generally well-ventilated, be prepared for their presence. Rainfall is still common, contributing to the lushness of the forest.
Autumn (March–April): Autumn is a beautiful time to visit, with the forest canopy often displaying subtle shifts in colour. The sandfly numbers typically decrease, and the weather can be crisp and clear, offering excellent visibility. However, days become shorter, and the possibility of early snow on higher sections of the track increases towards the end of April.
Winter (May–September): While the track remains open, winter presents significant challenges. Snowfall can occur at higher elevations, making the track slippery and potentially impassable without appropriate winter gear and experience. Daylight hours are short, and the weather is often cold, wet, and windy. Access roads may also be affected by snow or ice. Winter hiking is recommended only for experienced individuals with winter mountaineering skills and equipment.
Weather: The West Coast is renowned for its high rainfall. Visitors should always be prepared for wet conditions, regardless of the season. Rapid weather changes are common, so carrying waterproof and warm layers is essential. The elevation gain means temperatures can drop significantly as you ascend towards Lake Daniell.
Early Morning (Approx. 8:00 AM): Departure from Reefton
Morning (Approx. 9:00 AM): Trailhead Arrival and Preparation
Morning to Midday (Approx. 9:15 AM - 12:00 PM): Ascent Through Forest
Midday (Approx. 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Waitahu River Crossing and Higher Ascent
Afternoon (Approx. 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM): Arrival at Lake Daniell
Afternoon (Approx. 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM): Return Journey Commencement
Late Afternoon (Approx. 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM): Trailhead Arrival
Important Notes:
The Lake Daniell Track is a day walk, simplifying some planning aspects compared to multi-day treks. However, thorough preparation is still crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience. The closest town with comprehensive services is Reefton, approximately 30 minutes to an hour's drive from the trailhead. Reefton offers accommodation options ranging from motels to holiday parks, as well as supermarkets for stocking up on supplies, and fuel stations. It's advisable to base yourself in or near Reefton the night before your hike to ensure an early start. The access road to the trailhead is gravel and can be rough, particularly after wet weather. A 4WD vehicle is recommended for optimal comfort and safety, although a standard vehicle may be able to navigate it in dry conditions. Always check local road conditions before departing.
This is a day hike requiring no overnight accommodation.
No permits are required to walk the Lake Daniell Track. It is part of the Department of Conservation's public conservation land and is freely accessible to all visitors.
While no booking or permit is necessary, it is always advisable to check the Department of Conservation (DOC) website for any track alerts or closures before your visit. Conditions can change due to weather events, maintenance work, or other unforeseen circumstances.
The trailhead is accessible via a gravel road. While 4WD is recommended, standard vehicles can often manage in dry conditions. It's wise to check with local authorities or DOC for the most up-to-date information on road access, especially after periods of heavy rain.
Detailed route notes, maps, logistics & tips for the Lake Daniell Track (PDF).
Precisely traced GPX for the Lake Daniell Track, ready for your GPS or favourite mapping app.
The Reefton area and surrounding West Coast offer a variety of activities for visitors looking to extend their stay or explore beyond the Lake Daniell Track:
Pre-Departure Checks:
On the Track:
Emergency Contact: In case of an emergency, dial 111 and ask for Police or Ambulance. Provide your location as accurately as possible.
Waitahu River Bridge: This substantial bridge offers a fantastic vantage point to appreciate the power and beauty of the Waitahu River. Take a moment here to observe the water flow and the surrounding valley. The bridge is a key landmark on the track and a good spot for a brief rest.
Forest Canopy and Flora: The track passes through a magnificent example of West Coast temperate rainforest. Pay attention to the diverse plant life, including towering rimu, rata, and beech trees, abundant ferns, mosses, and lichens. The sheer density and variety of plant life are a highlight in themselves.
Lake Daniell Views: The primary point of interest is Lake Daniell itself. Upon reaching the lake, the landscape opens up, offering expansive views of the water and the surrounding Victoria Range mountains. The tranquility of the lake, often reflecting the sky and peaks, is a significant reward for the climb.
Potential for Wildlife: While not guaranteed, keep an eye out for native New Zealand birds such as fantails (pīwakawaka), tūī, and possibly even kiwi if you are very quiet and lucky, especially during dawn or dusk. The forest environment provides habitat for a variety of bird species.
The Lake Daniell Track traverses a beautiful and ecologically sensitive area. Practising Leave No Trace principles ensures that this natural environment remains pristine for future visitors and for the health of the ecosystem.
Your responsibility as a walker:
By adhering to these principles, you help preserve the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the Lake Daniell Track and its surroundings.
