Doubtful Valley Track

SH7 to Doubtful Hut

Time: 2 hr

Take care with river crossing; cross the Boyle River then follow the poled track on the true right of the Doubtful River across open flats to the bush. Here, pick up the track to Doubtful Hut.

Devilskin Saddle Route starts from Doubtful Hut. It links the Nina and Doubtful valleys via Devilskin Saddle.

Doubtful Hut

Doubtful Hut to Doubtless Hut

Time: 1 hour 30 min

Continue up grassy river flats and sections of track until you reach the Doubtful–Doubtless confluence. Cross the Doubtful River and then the Doubtless River to reach the Doubtless Hut on the true left of the river.

Lake Man Route begins from Doubtful Valley Track between Doubtful Hut and Doubtless Hut.

Doubtless Hut

Doubtless Hut to Amuri Pass

Time: 2 hr

From the hut, cross the Doubtless River and follow the track for about 10 minutes to a junction. Follow the track up the Doubtful River, crossing after about 20 minutes to the true right. The track follows the river to cut across Phantom Flat. At the top end of the flat, the track climbs steeply to the bushline. An old pack track crosses Amuri Pass.

Lake Sumner Forest Park lies 100 km northwest of Christchurch between the Lewis Pass and Arthur’s Pass National Park.

There is a car park by SH 7 – around 5 km further on from Windy Point and 5 km before Boyle Village.

There is no bridge over Boyle River from this access point, but the swingbridge at Windy Point (around 2 hours walk) can be reached via Tui Track if the river cannot be crossed.

Safety is your responsibility:

• Have the correct and the most up-to-date information
• Take a topographic map if going into more challenging country, i.e. something more than a tramping track.
• Always be prepared for sudden weather changes. Check the latest forecast, especially if any river crossings are required.
• Equip yourself well and prepare for the worst. Take enough food and water and the right clothing.
• Ensure someone else knows where you are going and when you plan to return.
• If staying in huts, fill in the intentions book. This may save your life.
• Dial 111 immediately for any fire emergency.