Description

From the mouth of the Albert Burn follow the farmed river flats into the gorge and on to the Albert Burn Hut. It is a standard 8-bunk hut. Fees apply. Bookings not required - first come, first served. Facilities include heating, mattresses, non-flush toilets and water (not treated - boil before use). The Albert Burn is a remote valley, with access by boat across Lake Wanaka or via the cattle track from the Makarora River mouth. From the mouth of the Albert Burn follow the farmed river flats into the gorge. Dont disturb livestock. The first section of the valley travels through a gorge and involves crossing the river several times. An old cattle track on the 'true right' of the river climbs up through beech forest above part of this lower gorge. As it continues up the valley, it crosses alluvial fans and bracken covered river beds before reaching large open flats; from here there is no marked track. Cross the river to the 'true left' at the high end of the last flat to reach Albert Burn Hut; situated on a small terrace at the western end. The hut is set well back from the river - don't miss it. Theres also a good 3-4 hour trip from here to the top flat. This area has terrain that can produce avalanches that cross the track, usually from May into November. There are river and stream crossings that become hazardous in heavy rain or snowmelt. Be prepared to turn back. Before you go, buy 1 Standard Hut Ticket (blue for adults, yellow for youth) for each night's stay. Put this in the honesty box at the hut. Or buy a Backcountry Hut Pass that gives unlimited use at most Standard and Serviced huts for a 6 or 12-month period.