Accommodation
Accommodation on the Rabbit Pass Trek is in public huts and wild camping. Camping equipment can be provided.
There are multiple unbridged river crossings so expect wet feet.
Aspiring National Park Trekking
Rabbit Pass Trek
Overview
The Rabbit Pass Trek is a classic and challenging route right through the heart of the Mount Aspiring National Park. The alpine pass itself is guarded from the Upper Wilkin Valley by the formidable Waterfall Face. Difficulties culminate in a technical descent into the head of the East Matukituki Valley. The journey traverses forested river valleys, surrounded by imposing peaks, including Tititea / Mount Aspiring. The crossing requires good conditions to safely navigate and trekkers require sure footing and a good head for heights.
Itinerary
Up to 6 hours, 10km
Day 1
The trip begins with a helicopter flight from Makaroa into the Upper Wilkin Valley with Backcountry Helicopters. The afternoon can be spent exploring the nearby Lake Lucidus, or Castila, depending on how far you’d like to go, spending the night at Top Forks Hut.
9 – 11 hours, 12km, 800m ascent
Day 2
The next day, the route to the pass climbs through Snow Bridge Gorge to the open Waterfall Flat. Concentration is required on the steep climb up the Waterfall Face and ropes will be used for security. From the top of the face, the route heads south under Pearsons Saddle, crossing the benign Rabbit Pass itself. A final steep climb leads to a second difficult section descending into the East Matukituki valley, and continuing down to campsites on the valley floor.
7 – 8 hours, 12km, 300m ascent
Day 3
The next morning the route continues down the valley requiring a number of river crossings. Trekkers will have wet feet from here on. After Ruth Flat, with its views of the impressive East Face of Fastness Peak, the track climbs steeply to bypass Bledisloe Gorge. Campsites exist above the bush line with stunning views up the Kitchener River to the East Face of Popes Nose and Mount Aspiring or you can forge on down the hill to Junction Flat.
5 hours, 11km, 700m descent
Day 4
From Junction Flat and a visit to Hester Pinney Falls, the track continues down the river exiting the bush at the confluence of the Glacier Burn. There is a final short trek across farmland to reach the Matukituki River and the Aspiring Road.
Equipment
Equipment
You will need good personal outdoor clothing for the mountains and comfortable trekking boots. The route has many river and stream crossings so boots may get wet and stay wet.
You will be expected to carry your personal gear, some group equipment, and some fresh food.
Difficulty & Fitness
Fitness
Ascents and descents of up to 500m and up to 15km distance per day. 10 – 15kg packs. 6 – 8 hours.
Backcountry Experience
Requires recent experience in off-track trekking. This includes movement over scree, boulders, and tussock slopes. Experience on DOC tracks, camping and in huts. May be unbridged river crossings.
Dates & Pricing
Availability
Register your interest for group trips during February 2027.
Pricing
From $1890 per person.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Includes: GST, guide fees, compliance costs, ground transport from Wanaka, helicopter flight into Top Forks Hut, food and mountain accommodation in public huts or tents.
Testimonials
‘A very professional guide and great company. He took time to explain to us what walks were possible/practical each day depending on the weather and the impact it would have on the surrounding rivers. If you are city dwellers it is very comforting to know that your guide is thinking of the safety of the group. [He] certainly kept us well fed as well. We are looking forward to future trips in the beautiful mountains around Wanaka which is a refreshing change and takes us out of our comfort zone for a few days at least.’
— Michael, Siberia Hut Trip
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