Mt Burns Tarns Track

This enjoyable, short tramping track leads from the Borland Saddle through the bush to the open, tussock-covered tops of Mt Burns.

This track starts from Borland Saddle on Borland Road in Monowai, Southland.

Lake Monowai and the Borland Road are located about 67 km from Te Anau (1 hour), and 120 km from Invercargill (1 hour 45 min) and can be accessed via the Southern Scenic Route.

From Te Anau

Drive south via the Te Anau-Mossburn Highway and onto the Blackmount-Redcliff Rd. After 55 km (about 40 min), turn right into Lake Monowai Rd just north of the Blackmount School. Follow signs to Borland Lodge or Lake Monowai (both reached after about 20 min).

From Invercargill

Drive 77 km to Clifden (65 min) then head north on the Clifden-Blackmount Rd (25 km, 20 min) until turning left into the Lake Monowai Rd, just north of the Blackmount School. Follow signs to Borland Lodge or Lake Monowai (both reached after about 20 min).

Borland Road

From the gate near Borland Lodge it is about 15 km up the Borland Road to Borland Saddle (990m above sea level). A toilet, parking and natural history information are available at the saddle.

Borland Road access

The Borland Road is unsealed, narrow and steep in places, and subject to slips, washouts, snow, ice, high winds and fallen trees.

It is usually fine for walking, mountain biking, 4WD vehicles and some other vehicles (depending on conditions).

It is not suitable for campervans, caravans or trailers. Vehicles are not allowed off the main road.

There are no fuel, communication (including cell phone coverage) or emergency services along its length, therefore only those properly equipped should attempt to negotiate the road.

The alpine tarns (lakes) and unique views are well worth the steep climb.

Plant lovers will enjoy the array of alpine plants including hebes, Spaniards (Aciphylla species), daisies (Celmisia species), Dracophyllum species and more.