Abel Tasman Great Walk

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Features Birding · Commonly Backpacked · River/Creek · Views · Waterfall

The Abel Tasman Great Walk is a picturesque coastal track in New Zealand's Abel Tasman National Park. Spanning 38 miles, it offers a 3-5 day hiking experience. Beginning from either Marahau or Wainui Bay, the well-marked trail winds through lush native forests, crosses swing bridges, and reveals breathtaking views of golden beaches and turquoise bays. Along the way, runners can explore Cleopatra's Pool, granite cliffs, and pristine coastal landscapes. With comfortable huts and campsites at Anchorage, Bark Bay, Awaroa, and optional stops at Whariwharangi Bay or Totaranui, this trek immerses visitors in the natural beauty of New Zealand's coastline, leaving lasting memories of its captivating splendor.

The track can be used all year. Reservations are needed for all campsites and huts ahead of time. More information can be found at the DOC website.

Good even trail. Some of the low-tide bay crossing could be challenging.

Begin your run from Marahau, following the clearly marked track along the coast. Pass through native forests, cross swing bridges, and enjoy panoramic views of the bays and golden beaches.

After approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles), you'll reach Anchorage Hut. This is a popular camping spot with a well-equipped hut.

From Anchorage, continue along the coastal track through beautiful forested areas. Enjoy views of Torrent Bay and pass by Cleopatra's Pool, a natural rock slide into a freshwater pool. After around 11 kilometers (6.8 miles), you'll reach Bark Bay. You can choose to camp here or stay in the Bark Bay Hut.

Depart from Bark Bay and run past clear turquoise waters as you go by pristine bays such as Onetahuti and Tonga Quarry. After approximately 13 kilometers (8 miles), you'll arrive at Awaroa. Here, you can camp or stay in the Awaroa Hut.

Leave Awaroa and continue your journey along the track. Admire the diverse landscapes, including beautiful beaches, native forests, and granite cliffs. After approximately 17 kilometers (10.6 miles), you'll reach Whariwharangi Bay. You can camp here or continue for another 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) to Totaranui, where you'll find a campsite and a DOC visitor center.

On the final day, depart from your camping spot or the Totaranui campsite. Follow the track through forests, enjoy stunning coastal views, and cross the Wainui Inlet swing bridge. After approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles), you'll reach the end point at Wainui Bay.

Flora includes -Native New Zealand forest trees like rimu, totara, kahikatea, and matai. Dense ferns, including silver ferns (New Zealand's national symbol) and tree ferns. Fragrant native flowers such as the kowhai (with its vibrant yellow blooms) and the pohutukawa (known as the New Zealand Christmas tree).
Coastal shrubs like manuka and kanuka.
Fauna includes - Native birds like tui, bellbirds, fantails, and New Zealand robin. The iconic kiwi bird, although it's mostly nocturnal and rarely seen. Seabirds such as gannets, shags, and blue penguins.
Fur seals that can be spotted basking on the rocks or swimming near the coast. Marine life like dolphins and occasional sightings of whales.