Lake Emily to Lake Heron via Manuka & Double Huts

A shorter version of the Emily Escapade but starting at Lake Emily and finishing at Lake Heron.

Although it can easily be run in the opposite direction. Starting at the Lake Emily carpark take the 4WD track east to Lake Emily. This is reasonably well marked as it is a section of the Te Araroa.

At a junction near the lake continue straight, taking the narrowing track that continues over a low rise to Manuka Hut. At the bottom of the short decent, you should meet the Manuka Hut mountain biking route. Continue North along this wide 4WD track until you meet the junction to Manuka Hut. This is only 500 m from the main track and worth a visit, especially if you need to restock water (the stream just before the hut is considered safe).

After bagging Manuka Hut, continue north along the Te Araroa trail passing 2 Lakes (Manuka and Seagull) before hitting the track junction to Double Hut. Continue up to Double hut (1km) to reminisce in the old time history of the hut. Apparently....the signature of Sir Edmund Hillary can be found on the walls. There is a small water source near the hut, but don't bother as it is often full of didymo and you can get water when you cross the Swin River.

After leaving Double Hut and meeting the Te Araroa again take in the views of the nearby ranges and continue North crossing the Swin River. This river is fast flowing so be careful with your footing and may be dangerous in heavy rainfall. After crossing the Swin River turn hard left at the sign towards Lake Heron. This next section of track is a well-trodden gradual downhill and can put some speed into the legs. Don't forget to stop for a moment to turn around and get some photos of the ranges.

At 2.5km out from the Lake Heron Car Park you hit a 4WD track before reaching your second car or bike. It is a 10km (25 - 35min) bike ride back to the Lake Emily Carpark.