Isthmus Peak Track: Wānaka's Two-Lake Summit Hike

Overview

Isthmus Peak sits on the narrow neck of land between Lake Wānaka and Lake Hāwea. From the top you get panoramic views of both lakes and the Southern Alps. It's a steep, challenging hike: 16 km return with about 1,000 m of climbing over 8 km, taking 5–7 hours from the car park.

DOC recommends Isthmus Peak as an alternative to Roys Peak, especially during the Roys Peak lambing closure. It's similar in length and difficulty, less busy, and has equally spectacular views.

The track

1. From the car park, cross SH6 carefully to the start of the track.
2. Follow the track through forest and farmland until it joins a 4WD track.
3. A steep, rocky ascent switchbacks up to the skyline ridge. You won't see the true summit until you're nearly at the ridge, so don't be fooled by the false summits.
4. At the ridge, a sign points right to Isthmus Peak (left goes to the Glen Dene Ridge Track).
5. Return the same way. There's no public access beyond the conservation area.

Grade: Advanced tramping track. Mountain bikes are allowed (Grade 5), but expect to push on many sections.

Closures and seasonal notes

• Closed every year from 20 November to 20 December for fawning
• March to May: Safari hunting takes place on Glen Dene Station during the roar. Stay visible, give way to game animals, and be alert.
• May to November: Avalanche terrain can affect the track when there's snow.

Getting there

The Isthmus Peak Track car park is off SH6, north of Lake Hāwea township, about 30 minutes' drive from Wānaka. It's a busy roadside car park, so take care parking and crossing the highway.

What to bring

• Plenty of water. There's none on the track.
• Sturdy hiking boots, warm windproof and waterproof layers, and sun protection. Hypothermia is a real risk even in summer, and whiteouts can happen.

Private land

Most of the track crosses private land. Stay on the marked track until you reach conservation land, leave gates as you find them, use the stiles, and keep away from stock. No camping before the conservation boundary.

Good to know

No dogs on this track, and no firearms.