Cascade Saddle

Cascade Saddle Assisted Trek 1 - 2 days

Is the weather good enough? Where does the track start? Do I need to carry water? How do I get there? Should we go if it is foggy? What equipment do I need?

Instead of guesswork - use a guide! This trip is for those who want to do the trip themselves but would like a little help. Let us take the worry out of your Cascade Saddle ascent, we supply a professional guide, transport and the local knowledge to get you started safely.

The ascent to the Pylon at the top of the saddle, is steep and exposed and often people need a little help and advice on the first day of the trip. Our guuide escorts you safely over the top. Your guide will stay with you until you feel confident to continue on your own down to the Dart hut and then he/she will return to Wanaka. If you want, for an extra charge, we can even relocate your vehicle to Glenorchy saving you valuable time on your holiday!

Cascade Saddle (1524m) is world famous for its spectacular views of Mt Aspiring. It links the majestic West Matukituki and Dart Valleys that lie in the Mount Aspiring National Park.

The trip begins with a gear check and a scenic drive through the Matukituki Valley (saves you the cost of a bus and you can ). A two hour gentle walk brings you to Aspiring hut where you will spend the night. Next morning, you are on your way through fantastic native beech forest. The track gradually steepens until you break out into the alpine tussock. Here the trail becomes exposed and traverses several rocky bluffs. In good weather the track is straight forward, steep and exposed. If the weather is not perfect, you will be especially glad to have an experienced guide along!

Once you are on top (3-5 hours) the trail traverses an alpine valley until it begins its descent into the Dart Valley. If the weather changes or visibility is poor this section of the trip can be very difficult for even experienced walkers and hikers. The guide stays with you until you are comfortable, all the way to the Dart hut if you want.

 

Logistics

Duration:  1 - 2 days

Grade:   Hard

Cost:   NZ $ 1,100 2 - 4 pax. (The price is shared between your party of 2-4) : NZ$900 1 pax.  Includes your qualified and friendly guide to the Dart Valley, gear and equipment check, weather and track information, ground transport from Wanaka (transport from Queenstown $35 extra) to Raspberry Flat in the Matukituki Valley, permit fees, group camping equipment for first night if requested, NZ Goods and Services tax. Food and hut fees not included in price.

Access:  Walk-in, clients to arrange own transport out of Dart Valley

Guide Ratio : 1 guide to 1 client minimum : 1 guide to 4 clients maximum (ask us about trips for more than 4 people)

Season : November - April

Prerequisites:  Trekking and hiking experience required for long days walking. Good balance.

Accommodation: Aspiring Hut or camping option

Bonus : Camping equipment provided if party opts to camp just above tree line on first night instead of overnight at Aspiring hut.

 

 

More information ?

 

 

Kea