Jack Hall's Saddle

Fantastic forest running near the beginning. Pass by Fern Burn Hut. Some of the best single track in the country just before and after the hut up to the saddle.

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.

Parking is pretty safe - I haven't heard of any issues here ever. You can ride a bike from Wanaka, hitch or use your own transport.

15 km

17 minutes

No

No

Easy.

Nothing really! Follow the DOC signs and the track, can't go wrong!

Patchy.

Thermal leggings, Long-sleeved thermal top, Seam-sealed waterproof jacket, Gloves, Beanie/thermal headwear, Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Survival blanket, Cellphone, Map, Headtorch and spare batteries, Crampons / microspikes (for winter conditions), Gaiters

You follow the river for the majority of the way and plenty of opportunities to refill. Obviously not down where the cattle and sheep are grazing.
Water nearly always available at Fern Burn Hut too.

If wet it will be very slippery. In winter there will be snow and ice around - probably quite dangerous up the top section in bad conditions and would be unsuitable to do.

Some steep drops either side of the single track en-route.

Urban Grind
Ardmore St, Wanaka
http://www.urbangrind.co.nz
Good coffee, beer and tapas style food.

The Big Fig
Ardmore St, Wanaka
http://bigfig.co.nz/
Great homey cooked meals, good coffee.