Last Updated: 19th Sep 2024
Boulder Lake to Anatoki Forks
Last Updated: 19th Sep 2024
Open
Grunt Factor: 126 ?
Gnarl Factor: 82 ?
53.3km
3265m
3150m
1544m
Last Updated: 19th Sep 2024
Last Updated: 19th Sep 2024
Open
Grunt Factor: 126 ?
Gnarl Factor: 82 ?
53.3km
3265m
3150m
1544m
Back country - remote
Point to Point (one way)
Very hilly
Native bush
Open tussock/grasslands
Open ridges/tops
Moderate Single Track
Technical Single Track
Untracked / Route only
Average Uphill Gradient: +10.5%
Average Downhill Gradient: -12.2%
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Not suitable
Slow
15:00
Moderate
11:00
Fast
This route connects the Boulder Lake Track (about 20km) with the Anatoki Forks Track (also about 20km). Between them is 15 km of scrambling along and below a high ridge. The views are magnificent but the going is very slow, with significant amounts of rock scrambling. Contingency planning is essential in case of problems with injury, weather, etc. The ambitious and well-prepared runner is rewarded with incredible views.
Boulder Lake Track and Anatoki Forks tracks are both maintained but fairly rough in places with multiple stream crossings, fallen trees, slips, etc. The route from Boulder Lake to Yuletide Peak is not maintained and is marked only by cairns -- it is very slow going and some way-finding is required.
This trail includes the peaks Yuletide Peak, Lookout Knob and Black Cow.
Dam workings can be found at Boulder Lake, but requires a detour. The Kahurangi Ranges and the view to the Dragons Teeth in particular are magnificent.
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 parks normally available. You could probably get a bus to Bainham and walk 4-5km from there.
43 km
39 minutes
Unknown
No
Hard.
Following the two tracks is relatively straightforward. It is essential to have a map that you have studied for the middle section, as in various places you will likely find yourself off the path and you'll need to know where you trying to go in order to find it again.
Very patchy.
Waterproof leggings, Lightweight fleece top, Long-sleeved thermal top, Seam-sealed waterproof jacket, Beanie/thermal headwear, Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Survival bag, Cellphone, Compass, Map, Headtorch and spare batteries
Water available at Boulder Lake and Anatoki Forks
Only possible to do in one day in dry weather. Pay close attention to the weather forecast. If bad weather is moving in, turn around and exit back via the Boulder Lake Track as the ridge is very exposed.
Heights, rocks, potentially exposed to bad weather. There are huts at Boulder Lake and Anatoki Forks, as well as Adelaide Tarn (slightly off route) so bring enough gear that you could shelter overnight if necessary.
Wholemeal Cafe
Commercial Street, Takaka
https://wholemealcafe.co.nz
Best real-fruit ice cream you've ever had.
Mussel Inn
Onekaka, Golden Bay
http://www.musselinn.co.nz
Iconic kiwi pub that brews their own beer.
Fastest Known Times (FKTs)
You and Boulder Lake to Anatoki Forks
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Ran/hiked this in reverse. Track now easy enough to follow in most places. What a stunning route. Despite numerous trips along the HDT this was my first time on to Yuletide- such great views onto the Dragons and Anatoki & a very different perspective. Beware there might be no drinkable water between Anatoki Forks and Green Saddle. Anyone wants help with logistics don't hesitate to email me at mb@tantrix.com
January 15, 2022
This was the very first South Osland backcountry I ever laced up for. First time round ot was a Dragons Teeth through Tramp to Cobb. A decade later came back and travelled the route described. Anatoki Forks Hut had a wetback shower which was great as heavy rain made us sut out a night at the hut- tributary creeks that cross the trail downstream of the hut were totally uncrossable washing machines! There is some careful routefinding to nail after Boulder Lake and Yuletide. Pack as if prepared for anything! Totally 5 stars, great countryside
January 26, 2020
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