Lake Daniell Track

The 17 km Lake Daniell Track is a beautiful out and back route within the Lewis Pass Scenic Reserve in the West Coast region of the South Island of New Zealand. A beautiful undulating route suitable for all skill levels, this track takes in a scenic beech forest as it follows the Alfred River and leads straight to Lake Daniell. The perfect beginner tramping track, this route is well-maintained and begins at the Marble Hill Campsite just 5 km from the Springs Junction on the Lewis Pass Highway. Following the track into the forest it crosses the Maruia River over the ‘Sluice Box’ and then winds up beside the Alfred River, eventually reaching the lakeside, where lies the Kōhanga Atawhai – Manson Nicholls Hut. An excellent day walk or for trampers wanting to stay, bookings are required in advance for the Manson Nicholls Hut which offers basic facilities including bunks for up to 20, mattresses, non-flush toilets and untreated water. This track can become wet and muddy in sections so appropriate footwear is required, whilst wasps are also common, particularly from December to April so anyone allergic to stings should carry antihistamines. Based on our data, the trail is graded as medium. For information on how we grade trails, please click here. Also, check our latest community posts for trail updates. This trail can be completed in approx. 6 hours. Caution is advised on trail times as this depends on multiple variables. For more info, click here.