Liverpool Track: Hiking in Mount Aspiring National Park
Explore with us one of the most wonderful in and out hikes in Mount Aspiring National Park, Liverpool Track, that leads to a renowned Liverpool Hut. Allegedly, this hut has a toilet with the best view in New Zealand, so let's find out. In this hiking guide, we share with you how to get to the trailhead, how to make a hut booking, when is the best time for the hike, and much more.
Mount Aspiring National Park, home to over 3000 meters high Mount Aspiring, is a renowned destination for many reasons. One of main reasons why this area makes it to many New Zealand itineraries is the incredible scenery.
The wonderful valley that is on both sides lined with jagged mountains, invites avid hikers and adventure travelers to explore hiking paths, that lead either through the valley but also to some of the peaks.
Fortunately, the number of trails is plentiful, and if you are looking for some of the top treks to do near Wanaka, Mount Aspiring National Park should definitely be on your radar.
Admittedly, we did not have that much time for exploring the park, and we could choose only one trail at that time.
In the end, we have opted for Liverpool Track, a 15 kilometers-long in and out trail that promised a true New Zealand wilderness experience.
We were immediately caught by the interesting trek's profile, that was a mix of an easy walk and pretty challenging climb uphill, but the real selling point for us was the unique location of Liverpool Hut itself.
The iconic red hut stands at a height of 1100 meters and overlooks the surrounding hills and the valley.
And who would not want to spend a night in such a beautiful location with a few same-minded travelers?
As it turned out, Liverpool Track is one of the best day hikes in this region.
We lived in New Zealand for over a year, and tramping was our favorite way how to get to know wonderful nature, but also locals and their way of life.
Once we counted, that overall we spent almost two months sleeping in huts all around New Zealand, and we still remember most of them, usually because of their unique location, which is also the case of Liverpool Hut.
In this hiking guide, we've decided to share with you everything you need to know before Liverpool Track.
From where to park your car, how to get to the trailhead, what to expect from the trail, or how to reserve a night in Liverpool Hut, it is all here.
LIVERPOOL TRACK
As we've already mentioned, Liverpool Track is 15 kilometers long, one way, and the only downside is, that it is not a loop.
Or you can look at it from the bright side and realize, that you will have an opportunity to walk this wonderful part of Mount Aspiring National Park twice.
Even though it is doable to walk in and out in one day, we do not recommend it.
First of all, the hike is quite challenging, so only very fit travelers could attempt it.
Also, conditions should have been perfect, and you would have to plan your trip for the summer when days are long.
But most importantly, we think that the absolute highlight of this hike is spending the night in Liverpool Hut, which is something you should not give up upon voluntarily.
The trek's profile consists of two parts.
The first part that leads to a very popular Aspiring Hut leads over grassed flats, and it is very easy.
The shorter second part includes a steep climb to Liverpool Hut, which is pretty tiring, but doable, in case you keep a steady pace.
Liverpool Track should take you anything between five and seven hours one-way.
LIVERPOOL TRACK TRAILHEAD
From Wanaka, which is a small but lively town, that we believe is on your South Island travel itinerary, hit the Wanaka Mount Aspiring Road, that will take you to Raspberry Flat Carpark, where you keep your car.
From here, it is possible to continue only on foot.
It is good to know that around 30 kilometers of this road are unpaved.
But we were able to reach the parking lot even without a 4WD.
Though there are a few stream crossings that were safe to cross at the end of summer, but check out the weather conditions because of the danger of washouts.
The parking lot is quite far from civilization, there are only a few farms around, but as it is a popular jumping-off point for many trails in the park, make sure you don't leave any valuables in the car, at least not in any visible place.
To reach Raspberry Flat Carpark from Wanaka, you need to drive 52 kilometers, but the drive takes anything between 1 hour and 15 minutes and 2 hours, because of the unpaved road.
HOW TO GET THERE
Getting to Liverpool Track trailhead is pretty straightforward, in case you have a car.
As getting around New Zealand is best with a rental car or a campervan we believe most of you will opt for this way of transport.
In case you do not have a car at your disposal, your only option is to arrange a tourist shuttle bus or a tour in Wanaka because public transport in this area is non-existent.
LIVERPOOL TRACK DESCRIPTION
Liverpool Track starts at Raspberry Flat Carpark, and the first section leads to Aspiring Hut, which is one of the busiest huts in Matukituki Valley.
It is not hard to figure out why. For the nine kilometers, you will walk on a flat path, which snakes through the valley and that mostly follows the insanely blue Matukituki River.
This part of Liverpool Track will take you across grassy flats - please be aware that you walk across privately-owned pastures, so behave respectfully.
You will also walk through a few farm gates.
When you find them closed, close them behind you, in case they are opened, leave them this way.
Even though the beginning is not challenging, you have at least time to appreciate the beauty of mountains that are on both sides of the valley.
Behind the Aspiring Hut, the trail was significantly less crowded, and we couldn't wait to arrive in our hut.
But we had to deserve it first.
It took us approximately an hour and a half to get to Pearl Flat - here was the trail more diverse, we walked in beech forest and across several swing bridges.
At Pearl Flat the trail splits in several directions, but no worries, paths in the park are well-marked, so you won't get lost.
The last section of the Liverpool Track is fairly short.
At this point it is only 1.5 or 2 kilometers to the hut, but signs in New Zealand show time to the destination, not distance, so you might find confusing, that such a short climb should take you around two hours according to the official information board.
Well, in this case, the board is not that exaggerating.
From this point, you can expect a climb straight up, use legs, arms, hiking poles, everything you have, in order to get above the tree line.
We won't lie to you, the climb is pretty challenging, and you don't have to only fight with your body, but it is also necessary to keep attention all the time because of slippery roots and rocks on the ground.
But every suffering has an end, and once you get above the bush line, the incline is less steep, and your movement will remind the human walk again.
The last hundreds of meters lead across a tussock terrain and not long after that, you will finally spot Liverpool Hut.
It won't actually be the first time when you see the hut, but make sure you follow the official trail and do not take any shortcuts, as it can be dangerous.
The return to the car park the next day leads along a very well-known trail.
Even though it could seem that descending to the valley will be very straightforward, we actually found it even harder, so walk carefully!
LIVERPOOL HUT
Liverpool Hut with its red color resembles a bit famous Mueller Hut in Mount Cook National Park, but it is much cozier and smaller.
The hut has only 10 bunk beds, but we believe you did not make all the way up to stay inside.
The real highlight here is to enjoy stunning vistas, especially during the sunset, when surrounding hilltops turn orange and red.
Liverpool Hut, thanks to its small size, is popular among tramps, who like to connect with others, so prepare yourself for an unforgettable evening.
Except for the hut, we, of course, have to mention a pit toilet, that is several meters away from the hut.
The toilet stands on an elevated place with a wonderful view and rangers who were assigned for Mount Aspiring National Park like to say, that this is a toilet with the best view in the world.
Liverpool Hut is a typical alpine serviced hut, which means there is drinking water, a mattress on a bunk bed, and a toilet.
LIVERPOOL HUT RESERVATION
We visited Liverpool Hut a few years back, and at that time the system worked on a first-come-first-served basis.
But the popularity of the trail has been growing, and it was not uncommon, that there were by far more travelers than bunk beds, they had to sleep on the floor, and it overall decreased the comfort of all, because there's simply not that much space for cooking, etc.
That's why, it is nowadays necessary to reserve accommodation in Liverpool Hut in advance, in the busiest season, which is between December and the end of April.
One night in the hut costs 20 NZD, and payment must be made at the time of booking via the official website.
It is also possible to use for payment your Backcountry Hut Pass, you can read more about how it works here.
In case you cannot make a reservation, a warden in the hut won't turn you around, especially late in the evening, but you won't be guaranteed with a bunk bed.
Being said that, always make a reservation.
Plus rangers might stop you along the way before you reach the hut, and they can inquire whether you made a booking or not.
During the offseason, between May and November, bookings are not required, but you should either have a Backcountry Hut Pass, or pay for the ticket before you set off, and then leave the ticket in an honesty box in the hut.
WHERE TO STAY IN WANAKA
Wanaka can be a perfect base for exploring Mount Aspiring National Park.
It is within driving distance, and it offers so many things to see and do, that you can easily spend here a couple of nights.
It is good to know that this town is super-popular among travelers, especially during the summer, so make your reservation as soon as you choose your travel dates.
We've handpicked the three best hotels in Wanaka for every type of traveler, where you can spend the night before or after Liverpool Track.
Budget | Holly's Backpackers - Simple but cozy rooms, shared kitchen, and a shared lounge, all of that for a very reasonable price.
Mid-range | Panorama Court - The centrally located hotel has everything a traveler might need, but the real highlight here is the view over Lake Wanaka.
Luxury | Maple Lodge Luxury Bed & Breakfast - This luxurious bed & breakfast has a wonderful location, modern rooms, and a stylish lounge, where you can relax by the fireplace.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME FOR LIVERPOOL TRACK & SAFETY
Liverpool Hut is accessible in every season.
Summer, roughly between November and March usually offers the best conditions, but you probably already know that weather in New Zealand's mountains is unpredictable, so always check the forecast before you set off.
During these months, paths in Mount Aspiring National Park should be cleared of snow, and although the first section that leads across farmlands might be a bit wet, you should not have any trouble doing Liverpool Track.
Early spring, late autumn, and winter are a bit challenging times for hiking, but it is absolutely doable.
It is recommended to always share your plans with someone, and we also think that you should be well-experienced for hiking in the winter.
The last climb to Liverpool Hut can be slippery even in the summer, so imagine the conditions in the winter.
Never take safety in the great outdoors lightly, and always make sure you are well-equipped, and you are as informed about current conditions as possible.
Also, take into account that it gets dark much sooner in the winter than in the summer.
It is necessary to say that the track to Liverpool Hut is stunning all year round.
Travel Insurance
We never leave home without travel insurance that was designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong during the trip.
Travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more.
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.
SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.
Travel smarter and safer!
WHAT TO PACK
Liverpool Track takes two days, so you should pack accordingly.
As you will most likely stay in the hut, you need a few things to enjoy the night.
First of all, pack a sleeping bag.
Then you need to have a cooking set, and stove & gas can, to prepare some food.
Try to pack as light as possible as you will carry everything on your back, that's why we can recommend you to try these dried meals - they are not only super-light but also quite tasty.
What should you wear?
Proper hiking boots, hiking pants, and a functional t-shirt.
We would say that no matter what months you chose for the hike, you are going to need a fleece jacket , rain poncho, hiking socks, waterproof jacket.
For the night in the hut, we like to have with us extra leggings, a Merino t-shirt with long sleeves, and a down jacket, as well as warm wool socks.
Also don't forget to bring a proper headtorch.
Water in New Zealand is drinkable even from the streams, so pack a durable water bottle to reduce plastic waste.
Travel Resources
Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.
Accommodation: When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld.
Tours: Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.
We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator.
Rental Cars: When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com, a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.
Flight Tickets: When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.
Travel Insurance: World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.
