Last Updated: 9th Nov 2023
The Royal Richardson Traverse
Last Updated: 9th Nov 2023
Open
Grunt Factor: 74 ?
Gnarl Factor: 81 ?
25.5km
2100m
2100m
1900m
Last Updated: 9th Nov 2023
Last Updated: 9th Nov 2023
Open
Grunt Factor: 74 ?
Gnarl Factor: 81 ?
25.5km
2100m
2100m
1900m
Back country - remote
Out and Back
Mountainous
Open tussock/grasslands
Open ridges/tops
Farm Road / 4WD Track
Technical Single Track
Untracked / Route only
Average Uphill Gradient: +15.7%
Average Downhill Gradient: -16.8%
Login as a VIP to see the trailhead information.
8:00
Slow
6:00
Moderate
3:30
Fast
From the car park, follow the signposts towards Heather Jock Hut. This is a fairly consistent 1200m climb. Once at the hut, head up to the ridge line to the South East. You should be able to pick up the old mining track that leads towards Avalanche Slip Hut (now a ruin, 'cause it got hit by an avalanche!) This section of track is washed out in places and should be crossed with care! Once clear of the flanks of Mt. Alaska, the track joins an old water race - the fastest part of the course! At the clearing towards the end of the water race, you will need to head SE up the very steep ridgeline, then head right along the ridge as far as Dwell Hut. If you have the time and energy, Mt.Larkins can be summited from here (allow an extra 3 hours). Return from the hut the same way. A more direct descent is possible down the scree slope before the ridge you ascended (recommended if you like that sort of thing!) Re-join the water race, but after crossing Avalanche Slip, head South West towards the top of Mt. Alaska. Once at the top, follow the ridge down to the North West to re-join the track to Heather Jock Hut (more awesome scree!) From the hut, retrace your steps to the car park.
This trail includes the peak Mount Alaska.
The lower track passes through scheelite mines and restored historic cottages. Plenty of DOC information along the way describing the rich history of the area.
If you know of any public toilets near the trail start or on the route, please login and then let us know so we can update this section.
Plenty of parking at the Whakaari Conservation Area car park.
2 km
2 minutes
Unknown
No
Hard.
This route should only be attempted in clear settled weather. Without line of sight, navigation is extremely difficult, confusing, and only to be undertaken by runners who are very experienced with a map and compass.
Patchy.
Waterproof leggings, Thermal leggings, Lightweight fleece top, Short-sleeved thermal top, Long-sleeved thermal top, Seam-sealed waterproof jacket, Gloves, Beanie/thermal headwear, Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Survival bag, Cellphone, Compass, Map, Headtorch and spare batteries, Crampons / microspikes (for winter conditions)
Plenty of small streams along the way that are safe for drinking.
Very exposed terrain! Only passable in the Summer months. In Winter, there is significant avalanche hazard and deep snow.
Avalanche prone after heavy snow and in the spring. Steep drop offs and cliffs.
Glenorchy Cafe
Glenorchy
Great coffee and crumble!
Trail Legend
Fastest Known Times (FKTs)
You and The Royal Richardson Traverse
As a VIP member you can record private notes for this trail, see all of your times and more.
Already have an account? Login now
These overlap with this trail to some degree. You may wish to combine them but please note that to qualify for FKTs on these runs you should record a separate activity for each.
Send to your phone
Scan the below QR code to open this trail on your phone.
Tip: position the QR code in your phone camera screen.
