Circle track, Manapouri

Time: 3.5 - 4 hours

Access: Via River Taxi from Manapouri

The Circle Track is an 8km circular(!) route, with a stunning view point 300 meters up. It takes approx 3 1/2 to 4 hrs to walk with stops, a recommended way to pace yourself, take photos and see the birdlife.

We recommend walking in a clockwise direction, which takes you up the steepest bit first. As a result you do need medium to good fitness to enjoy this walk. This way the climb is undertaken first to the view point for lunch / drink and then when you descend there is a wonderful sandy beach where you can stop and enjoy the views over Lake Manapouri to the Cathedral Mountains. On a sunny day it's a perfect place for a swim.

The viewpoint from the top is stunning with wonderful views over the Lake with its many islands. There are also great views over to Mt Titiroa, a limestone topped mountain, and over the Back Valley, an area known as a local haunt of red deer.

The local birdlife are sure to entertain with bird song and often follow you along. The native bush is distracting in it's beauty and smell.

This walk is requires medium+ level of fitness as the climb to the top is quite steep. The views are well worth it.

Don't forget to take your swimming togs for a refreshing swim in the lake. A great way to finish the track.