Mt Stevens

The beginning of Mt Stevens Track is located 26 km up Aorere Valley from Collingwood. At Collingwood, turn left onto Collingwood-Bainham Main Rd and follow it up the valley toward the start of Heaphy Track. The road is sealed for the majority of the distance, though it turns to gravel after 20 km (6 km before the track start). After crossing Fifteen Mile Creek bridge, the road climbs onto a terrace and you will see the DOC sign and small car park on the right side of the road.

The route starts off as a 4WD vehicle track through thick mānuka scrub and other young regenerating natives. After 1.5 km the route branches off to the left, following a rough, though well-marked track that soon enters mature forest. The route follows the crest of a spur, climbing at a reasonably consistent rate and flattening out in a couple of sections. There are also a few steep spots where you’ll need to use tree roots to help pull yourself up. The forest makeup transitions as you gain elevation; further down it is a mix of beech and podocarps, though as you gain elevation southern rātā, dracophyllum and silver beech dominate. You’ll reach the tree line 2-3 hr from the car park, at 1170 m elevation.

The tussock-covered tops comprise three knobs, each similar in height. The official route, marked by orange poles, continues to the trig on the northern knob (1208 m), while the official summit of Mt Stevens (1213 m) is the southernmost. It is not immediately visible from where you reach the tree line, though as you climb to the brow of the ridge on the left you will see the obvious knob across the gully to the southwest. There is no official route to the official summit, only a lightly-worn path through the tussock in places and you will have to pick your own way. Allow at least an hour to explore the tops, which on clear days provide magnificent views in all directions.

Return the way you came.

The summit of Mt Stevens is an alpine environment, so proper preparation and care should be made to ensure a safe trip. The track reaches a high elevation and is exposed above the tree line, so proper outdoor clothing is essential. Be sure to check the weather forecast before you go. Poor visibility may make navigation difficult above the tree line. Bringing plenty of water as there are no water sources along the way.

See the Mountain Safety Council website for useful information on preparing for the outdoors.