A Fishy Trail

This trail includes the peak Mount Fishtail.

There is a side trip near the beginning to a waterfall approx. 10 minute off trail. Climb to Mt Fishtail.

There is a long drop at the trailhead.

Parking for 8-10 vehicles, self drive required. There is a long drop at the carpark and water is available from the river nearby.

11 km

21 minutes

With Permit

No

Moderate.

Well marked with orange triangles to Fishtail Hut, from the hut there are occasional cairns but self navigation is required.

Patchy.

Waterproof leggings, Thermal leggings, Lightweight fleece top, Long-sleeved thermal top, Seam-sealed waterproof jacket, Windproof jacket, Gloves, Beanie/thermal headwear, Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Survival bag, Cellphone, Map, Headtorch and spare batteries, Crampons / microspikes (for winter conditions)

Water available at the start and along the first 3.5km from the river, after the river crossing at the bottom of the climb there is no water until you reach the hut, in high summer the hut tank may be empty.

In winter and spring, snow and ice will be present in various amounts, apline skills essential due to risk of avalanche and or potential icy slopes.
Not advisable in high winds at any time of the year as very exposed on the ridge.

Many rocks and roots, with slippery pine needles underfoot, extremely steep and hazardous if wet or rainy. One river crossing is unbridged and could be impassible due to rain. The track crosses a large slip near the hut, potential for falling in bad weather or poor visibility is high.