Isthmus Peak Track: Walking Guide, Time & Access

Route overview

Isthmus Peak Track is a steep and challenging but rewarding hike located between Lake Wānaka and Lake Hāwea, offering panoramic views of both lakes and the Southern Alps.

This DOC directory entry covers Isthmus Peak Track in Otago, within Wānaka area. Where DOC groups several walks, times and grades refer to the listed options rather than a single continuous itinerary.

Distance, time and grade

• Distance: 16 km return via same track
• Walking time: 5 to 7 hr return from Isthmus Peak Track car park
• DOC grade: Advanced

Access and alerts

Source checked 2026-10-08. This page is a dated snapshot, not a live track-status report. Check current DOC route information immediately before travelling. An absence of listed alerts does not establish that a route is open.

Seasonal restrictions

November to December – Track annually closed for fawning between 20 November and 20 December. March to May – Safari hunting takes place on Glen Dene Station. Be alert and stay visible, especially during the March to May roar hunting season.

Dog access

No dogs. Other pets on conservation land rules.

Description

Trampers will need to be fit to walk this steep track. It is well-marked – make sure you stick to the established trail as it is on private land.

From the car park, cross SH6 to the start of the track. Follow the track through the forest and across some farmland, until it joins a 4WD track. From here it is a steep rocky ascent that switchbacks up to a skyline ridge. Along the track, you won’t be able to see the summit until you are almost at the ridge; don’t be fooled by the false summits on the approach.

It is a steep and lengthy climb as you gain 1000 m over 8 km. Make sure you have sturdy hiking boots and plenty of water as there are no water sources along the track.

On reaching the ridge, a sign points to Isthmus Peak Track on the right and Glen Dene Ridge Track on the left.

There is no public access beyond the conservation area. Return to the Isthmus Peak Track car park by the same route.

You can mountain bike this track but on many sections you will have to dismount and push your bike.

Getting there

Isthmus Peak Track car park is off SH6, north of Lake Hāwea township and 30 minutes drive from Wanaka.

Take care parking and crossing the road – this is a busy carpark beside the highway.

Know before you go

Your safety is your responsibility. Stay safe in the outdoors and follow the five essential steps of the Land Safety Code.

Bad weather

The weather can change rapidly in New Zealand. Hypothermia is a real risk even in summer. Be prepared by having warm, waterproof, windproof clothing and the appropriate footwear. Whiteout conditions caused by snow or low cloud may be present. Check the Mount Aspiring National Park weather forecast – NIWA website.

Be avalanche alert

Avalanches can occur in any season. Any time that snow and steep slopes are combined there is potential for an avalanche. You need to understand the risks before you visit avalanche-prone country.

This area has terrain that can produce avalanches that cross the track, usually from May into November. View avalanche information and the terrain rating for this track.

Private property and permissions

This track crosses private land. There is no camping until the conservation area boundary.

Respect the landowner's livestock and property:

• Stay on the marked track until you reach the conservation land

• Leave gates as you find them

• Use stiles where provided

• Keep your distance from livestock.

Dogs

You need permission from the Makarora River Ranch to take your dog into Hāwea Conservation Park using Boundary Creek Track. Email makaroraranch@gmail.com at least 24 hours in advance of your visit to request permission. You must provide a valid worming certificate to ensure your dog is free from hydatids and sheep measles.

There is a safari hunting operation on this station, give way to game animals, especially during the March to May roar.

Firearms are not permitted on this track.

Sources and reuse

Route descriptions and practical information reproduced from the Department of Conservation, Crown copyright, under CC BY 4.0, subject to DOC's copyright policy. Formatting has been adapted, including flattening page sections; follow the original DOC page for maps, section-specific layout, current notices and linked documents. Outdoor Next is independent and is not endorsed by DOC.

The accompanying photograph is published in DOC's official route gallery with an explicit reuse licence. Its original caption and credit are retained; it does not establish current track conditions.