Across the Sylvia Tops: A Three-Day Traverse to Devils Den and Lucretia Bivvies
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
The Sylvia Tops route is one of those trips that asks a lot of you early, then slowly repays the with wild ridgelines, remote bivvies, and a real sense of being deep in Lake Sumner Forest Park. This three-day loop took us from Palmer Lodge, up and over the Sylvia Tops to Devils Den Bivvy, then down through the Nina Valley to Lucretia Bivvy, before returning the same way. It was physical, committing in places, and deeply satisfying.
Day 1: Palmer Lodge to Devils Den Bivvy
7 hours | 11.5 km
Departed 9.20am
We left Palmer Lodge just after 9.20am, crossing the Nina River via the Nina Swingbridge before joining the Nina Track. The track was muddy and boggy in places but generally well graded and easy going—unsurprising given how popular this section is, particularly with families.
At the junction with the Sylvia Tops Track, the tone of the day changed. We dropped down to the Nina River, crossed it at just under knee depth, picked up the orange markers on the far side, and began the climb.
The track had been recently trimmed, but it was still overgrown in places, with plenty of windfall and large trees to negotiate. Track markers were sparse at times, requiring a bit more focus than usual. The climb itself was steep and relentless, offering little in the way of respite. Even after reaching the bush edge, the ascent wasn’t over.
From there, the route climbed over a series of tops—peaks 1624, 1561, and 1524—while Peak 1662 is sidled just below the summit before heading toward Point 1484. The final push involved climbing to just below Point 1625 and then dropping directly down the ridge to Devilskin Saddle. This section was steep, scrubby, and slow going.
Once on the Sylvia Tops ridge, travel improved, but the terrain remained challenging. Bouncing from top to top after such a sustained climb demanded concentration and energy. By the time we reached Devils Den Bivvy, it had been a long, hard day—one that well and truly earned the night’s rest.
Day 2: Devils Den Bivvy to Lucretia Bivvy (via Nina Hut)
6 hours | 11 km
Departed 7.30am
We left Devils Den Bivvy at 7.30am, dropping down toward Nina Hut. The alpine scrub was tall and boggy, with hidden holes that kept us moving cautiously. Once we reached the bush, travel became easier, although mud was still a feature. Fortunately, recent track work meant overgrowth and windfall weren’t an issue.
After two hours, we reached Nina Hut and stopped for morning tea while deciding how best to approach Lucretia Bivvy. We opted to continue along the Nina Track until it met the Nina River, cross there, and then pick up the Lucretia Track.
The Nina Track was fast and easy, taking about an hour to reach the river. A short push through scrub, a scramble down to the river, and a climb up the other side landed us right on the Lucretia Track.
From here, the track followed Lucretia Stream. Once it left the Nina Valley, the route climbed steeply above the stream before descending back down. From there, the track followed the stream more gently, gradually climbing toward Lucretia Bivvy. It was a quieter, more enclosed stretch of travel, with the sound of water never far away.
Day 3: Lucretia Bivvy to Palmer Lodge
3.5 hours | 9.5 km
Departed just after 7am
We were away early from Lucretia Bivvy, leaving just after 7am. Retracing our steps beside Lucretia Stream, we crossed back over and climbed briefly to the high point before descending steeply into the Nina Valley.
The Lucretia Track was easy to follow and allowed for quick progress as it rejoined the Nina Valley Track at the swingbridge. From there, the walking was swift and straightforward. Although there was still some mud and visible track damage from the October storms, it didn’t slow us down much.
We passed the junction with the Sylvia Tops Track knowing the end was close—about 45 minutes from the road. It was an easy finish to a trip that had started with one of the most demanding climbs I’ve done in a while.
Trip Stats
Day 1:
7 hours
11.5 km
Day 2:
6 hours
11 km
Day 3:
3.5 hours
9.5 km
The Sylvia Tops route is not a casual undertaking. It’s steep, sustained, and requires good navigation skills and fitness, particularly on the climb from the Nina River. But for those willing to put in the work, it delivers remote alpine travel, quiet bivvies, and a deep sense of accomplishment—exactly the kind of trip that stays with you long after your boots are clean and dry again.
Enjoyed this adventure? 🌿 Subscribe here to get the latest hiking stories and tips straight to your inbox.
Comments