Upper Clutha River Track
Alerts
Check the DOC website for current alerts and conditions before you go. This site gets current alert info from DOC, but is not an official source of information.
Walk or cycle along the banks of the Clutha River near Lake Wānaka.
Elevation
Cover mapped summer 2023/24.
Description
This track, from Albert Town to Luggate, follows along the river bank offering views of the Clutha’s emerald-green water with the odd trout lurking in its shadows.
Joggers, cyclists and walkers will enjoy shade in summer and shelter from the elements in winter.
You can walk the whole length or sections of the track.
A loop option is possible when combined with the Newcastle Track, located on the true left of the river.
Times and distances from carparks
- Albert Town to Cardrona River 1 hr, 2.5 km
- Cardrona River to Stevensons Road 1 -1 hr 30 min, 5 km
- Stevensons Road to Reko’s Point 1 hr, 4 km
- Reko’s Point to Shortcut Road carpark 1 hr, 4 km
- Shortcut Road carpark to Luggate 45 min, 3 km
Fishing
The Upper Clutha River is home to a large population of introduced brown and rainbow trout. Both spinning and fly fishing work well, with fly fishing being the most productive method during the warmer months. A current fishing licence from Fish & Game New Zealand is required.
Getting there
There are several carpark entrance points to begin or finish at: Albert Town, Cardrona River, Stevensons Road, Reko’s Point, Shortcut Road and Luggate.
Know before you go
This is a shared-use track. Follow the mountain bikers code: respect others, respect the rules, respect the track.
Weather
Forecast at the start of the track