Directions

From Westport take State Highway 67 north to Granity and Karamea. Turn right at the signposted road to Seddonville just before the bridge over the Mokihinui River. Turn right at the Seddonville tavern and then left onto the Charming Creek Road. About 5 minutes along, take a left at the sign posted Marris-Woollett Road. While 4WD is not required, good under carriage clearance is; this is a seriously backwoods road. Go until you are quite sure you’ve gone too far and keep going (10 minutes or so on this road). Once you cross a wooden bridge you’re getting close. Finally you will come to Department of Conservation signpost for the Glasgow Route.

Mt Glascow

On a fine day competes with any views on the planet.

The marked route does not extend to Mt Glasgow proper but rather to a high point (1400 metres plus) on top of the Glasgow Range.  It climbs 1000 metres, and requires careful attention to sometimes meagre route markings. Most importantly, it should only be attempted on a fine day with a perfect weather forecast by fit, bush savy walkers! If all those criteria are met, the rewards of this endeavor are simply stunning.

After a 1 and 1/2 hour trudge up the beech clad ridge, you break out into scrub and spectacular views. But you’re only half way, remember. The route markings now become even more tricky to follow. After 10 minutes in the open the route turns back into the bush for a good 20 minutes. When it breaks into the open for the second time, you’re in proper tussock but the steepest climb still looms ahead. Yes, the track climbs directly over that peak ahead and the markings up it are near non-existent. Bush skills are essential here as you make your way to the top of this peak. Lungs and legs will get a thorough work out, too. Once there the remaining travel is a ‘walk in the park’ to the perfect grassy top at the end of the ridgeline. Keep your camera out from here on up and savor every step of this section. You’ve earned it!!!

Upon reaching the top the view east opens. Dozens of tarns sprinkle and gleam across high hanging valleys. Now the biggest challenge is which way to face with your picnic lunch.

This walk works beautifully year round with the following considerations:

>  Strong positive weather forecast is a must.

>  Early in the day is best due to afternoon clouding in

>  Tate Creek must be forded 10 minutes into the hike. Do not attempt at high water level. (Normal level will get you wet to mid shin.)

>  You will cross an excellent creek (drinking water source) 3/4 of the way up. Load up here on water. But: this creek may dry in the peak of  summer so keep a reserve under those conditions.

>  Do not allow yourself to be caught above the bushline (top half of the hike) when clouds roll in. The potential for disorientation is near absolute.

>  Route markings are not sufficient for even seasoned trampers.

>  Cell phones generally do get reception above the bushline.

Leave your intentions with someone who understands that this is a serious endeavour.

This is a day tramp you’ll never forget. You’ll love this country but it won’t love you back; it doesn’t care in the least. This is as real as it gets.