Mount Robert Circuit

Dogs No Dogs

Features Lake · Views

This is one of the most popular trails in Nelson Lakes National Park. It does a circuit around Mount Robert with spectacular views of Lake Rotoiti to the east and the northern end of the Southern Alps to the west.

Check the weather before going. Much of the run is in a very exposed alpine environment, which can be dangerous in bad weather (and you won't see much of the view!)

The path is mostly well maintained with few obstacles. The descent toward the carpark has some eroded areas that need to be watched out for.

From the carpark at the trailhead, the track can be enjoyed in either direction. As it's mapped, the track climbs steeply, switchbacking in and out of the forest for the first leg, with many parts of it quite exposed.

After the climb, you emerge on the western ridgeline and follow this to Relax Shelter. From here, you can leave the track and explore more of the ridgeline headed toward Lake Angeles, or you can continue on the circuit along the southern face of the mountain with some incredible views of the lake on your left at the saddle.

After 20 minutes or so, you'll arrive at Bushline Hut – a great place for lunch or a snack with nice views of the southern arm of Lake Rotoiti and the St. Arnaud Range. From there it is a steep, winding, and exposed descent back to the carpark. This run is well worth the effort and provides beautiful mountain and lake views for your efforts.