Described as a ‘must-do’ trail, the 10 km out and back Rob Roy Track is located near Wanaka, within the Otago region of the South Island of New Zealand.
Rated as medium, this spectacular well-marked trail boasts wonderfully dramatic landscapes featuring a glacier, snowfields, snow capped mountains, a waterfall surround by rugged cliffs and alpine vegetation. There may also be an opportunity to see the inquisitive native kea parrot, often found in the alpine regions of New Zealand, but if you do see them please don’t feed them.
There is free car parking at the Raspberry Flat car park, although getting to the trailhead is a mini adventure in itself; taking around 45 minutes from Wanaka, it involves gravel farm roads with multiple fords to cross. It should be noted that during severe weather this road may not be accessible due washouts and flooded creeks – it’s advised to check road conditions before you leave.
From the car park the trail crosses West Matukituki River via a swing bridge, then climbs through the valley until it reaches a beech wood and then opens to mountainous foliage and rewards with views of the Rob Roy Glacier.
Care should be taken in alpine regions due to unpredictable inclement weather. Be prepared with appropriate equipment, clothing, and check conditions before setting out. Avalanches are also a risk in this area, typically from May into November.
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. 3 – 4 hours. Caution is advised on trail times as this depends on multiple variables. For more info,
click here.