We will collect you from your accommodation and drive to Lyell car park in the Upper Buller Gorge. The gold rush in Lyell began in 1862 when Māori prospectors found gold in Lyell Creek. The settlement grew quickly and what is now the track start was once home to a thriving gold rush town with over 2000 inhabitants in the late 1880s. 

Beginning our walk with a steady climb along the 100+ year old dray road, we will enjoy views across the stunning Lyell Range and pass through beautiful podocarp and beech forest. We observe relics of old gold mining claims and other ghost towns on our way up to Lyell Saddle Hut (875m above sea level). Bird sightings include Weka, Kereru, Tomtit, Bellbird and Tui.

The morning commences with a graded climb through the bush and onto the tussock tops where we cross the highest point of the Lyell Range at 1459m.

We descend to the unique Ghost Lake Hut which is dramatically perched on a mountain ridgeline. Amazing views and magical mountainous vistas surround us. We will observe a wide diversity of sub-alpine herbs, grasses, bog plants and mosses in this fragile ecosystem.

Departing from Ghost Lake Hut after breakfast, we trek down through the ancient moss-covered beech forest. We enjoy dramatic descents and follow the waterway to our evening accommodation at Stern Valley Hut. This is an opportunity to observe the Whio (Blue Duck) and listen out for its iconic whistle. Relish the tranquility of the surrounds.

This morning, we explore the Earnest Valley, a tributary of Stern Creek. An earnest climb is then required to ascend to the saddle which allows passage into the Goat Creek catchment area. At the twin lakes (Lake Grim and Lake Cheerful), we discover the iconic ‘Boneyard’, moving onto ‘Solemn Saddle’ and down through ‘The Hanging Judge’. Scrub and grass covered valleys lead to the historic Goat Creek Hut where we stop for lunch. From here we hike along the valley floor, following the stream. Our destination is Specimen Point Hut which is located at the head of the Mokihinui River Gorge.

The Old Ghost Road picks up the old miners’ track following the left bank of the mighty Mokihinui River gorge, a magnificient river still wild and untamed! We will cross dramatic bridges and admire the workmanship that has developed this remarkable track. While enjoying the privilege of this wilderness our trek ends in lodge style accommodation in Westport with West Coast hospitality to celebrate!

We will deliver you back to Nelson approximately 3.30 pm. Our route will take you through the picturesque Buller Gorge. We will be stopping at Murchison before arriving at Nelson airport or your preferred destination.