A Selection of West Coast Day Hikes You Need to Add to Your List
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
The West Coast is famous for its wild weather, lush rainforest, swing bridges, and trails that feel like they’ve been carved straight into adventure. Whether you love glacier views, moss-covered forests, historic gold-mining routes, or remote-feeling tracks close to town, the Coast always delivers.
Here’s a selection of West Coast day hikes worth exploring—each offering something unique, rugged, and wonderfully “Coastie.”
1. Lake Wombat Track
Location: Near Franz Josef Glacier
Time: ~1.5 hours return
Difficulty: Easy
A short but beautiful walk through regenerating forest that leads to the mirror-like Lake Wombat. On a calm day, expect perfect reflections of the surrounding rimu and kahikatea. This is a great warm-up hike or a perfect option if the glacier valley weather turns grim but you still want time in the bush.
Why hike it?
Quick and accessible
Great photo spot
Family-friendly
2. Blowfly Hut
Location: Near Paringa
Time: 2 - 3 hours return
Difficulty: Moderate
Despite the name, Blowfly Hut has a devoted fan club among trampers. The track takes you through dense West Coast forest, steep sections, and classic muddy patches before popping you out at a small, character-filled hut with a surprisingly peaceful atmosphere.
Why hike it?
A real taste of remote hut life
Good step up from easy tracks
A great intro to West Coast terrain without committing to an overnighter
3. Roberts Point Track
Location: Franz Josef Glacier
Time: 5–6 hours return
Difficulty: Hard
One of the most iconic day hikes on the West Coast. Roberts Point Track is an adventure from start to finish: suspension bridges, exposed drop-offs, waterfalls, narrow platforms bolted into cliffs, and a final viewing platform overlooking Franz Josef Glacier. This track is not to be underestimated—slippery when wet, narrow in places, and physically demanding.
Why hike it?
Glacier views without booking a helicopter
Technical, exciting, and incredibly rewarding
One of NZ’s best rainforest–glacier contrasts
4. Cesspool (Cess Pool) Track
Location: Near Hokitika Gorge
Time: ~1–1.5 hours return
Difficulty: Moderate
A short, punchy adventure leading to a beautiful blue swimming hole surrounded by mossy boulders. This track is less known than the gorge but gives you that same surreal West Coast water without the crowds. The trail includes roots, rocks, and a bit of scrambling—classic Coast terrain.
Why hike it?
Amazing swimming spot
Quick and fun
A hidden gem for confident walkers
5. Goldsborough Tracks
Location: Goldsborough (north of Hokitika)
Time: Various (30 minutes to 3+ hours)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
This historic area is full of short connected tracks following old gold mining water races, tunnels and terraces. It’s a great choose-your-own-adventure spot with lush forest, plenty of history, and options for loops. Perfect for stretching the legs, exploring heritage, or combining walks for a longer outing.
Why hike it?
Rich gold-mining history
Lots of track options
Excellent if the weather is patchy and you want flexibility
Final Thoughts
The West Coast proves that you don’t need huge elevation or long days to find adventure. These tracks capture the essence of the region—wild, damp, green, and always rewarding. Whether you’re in the area for glaciers, a road trip, or a weekend escape, this selection of day hikes offers something for every hiker.
Want more trail tales? 🥾 Subscribe here and never miss an adventure.
Comments