Big Hut, Rock and Pillar Range loop

Start: Car park

(S/E) From the car park, walk North-West then North to cross a fence.

(1) Here make sure you maintain your left. Elevation will rise very quickly and it is quite challenging with a lot of bushes so keep an eye on the orange waymarkers along the way.

(2) After 4.3 Km or so, you reach Big Hut. (Here there is the possibility to say overnight or have a break for lunch). Then carry straight on Northward.

(3) At the junction, there is the possibility here for a detour on the left to go to Summit Rock (elevation 1450m). Otherwise carry straight on North. This part is a relatively flat area but very exposed. A very good windproof jacket and warm clothes are required.

(4) Then you reach another hut (Leaning Lodge Hut). It is a very new one, when we passed through it was still being built. Carry straight on past it to reach a 4 wheel-drive track where you turn left (South-East). It is an easier terrain and it starts to go downhill from here. Be prepared, you are going to descend 8 Km or so.

(5) Along the track you might spot cows and goat. True story I could smell goat cheese passing nearby. This needs an investigation. Cows are very friendly and will let you pass if they block your way but just be cautious to not be too brisk near them. Also, further on, on your right is a field full of deer if you're lucky enough to spot them.

(6) When you reach the main road, (SH87), turn right. then it is now a 3 Km boring walk on the road back to the car park. (S/E)

Start: Car park

Facilities : Toilets at the start

Gears: After the first hut, the area is very exposed and cold in winter. Make sure to bring appropriate clothing as it is an alpine environment.
Be aware that you might see some snow, the terrain can be even more challenging, crampons and proper equipment are advised, especially in winter.

Accommodation: Two huts along the way on top of the ridge line, possibility to stay overnight, booking required. For more infos, see the Department of Conservation website here. and Middle March here.

• You will see plenty of birds, cows, deers and goats.
• Stunning views over Middelmarch and the Rock and Pillar Ranges. You can observe distincts schist tors and rock pillars on the flat summit ridge, very specific to the area.
• Big Hut is an old ski lodge built in 1946 and is worth a look inside even if you don't stay overnight
• On the first climb, many spiky plants, named Aciphylla aurea that wants to ruin your legs, it is therefore recommended to wear pants or leggings.
• Typical tussock plants everywhere, especially during the first clim, that make you feel in the movie Galdiator, when Maximus is reunited with his family.