Day Hike Adventure | Ben Ohau Summit and Greta Stream Track

Ben Ohau Summit

Rising above the Mackenzie Basin, Ben Ohau is a commanding peak that offers sweeping views over Lake Ōhau, the Hopkins Valley, and across to the Ōhau Ski Field. This 16 km circuit combines a steep climb on a 4WD track, a short off-track summit push, and a long descent down the Greta Stream Track, finishing at the road opposite the rustic Greta Lodge.

It’s a solid day out—about 6 hours return—rewarding those who tackle its relentless climb with one of the best viewpoints in the region.

Getting There

The hike starts on Glen Lyon Road, around 22 km inland from Twizel. There’s space to park on the roadside near the beginning of the 4WD track.

The Climb to the Saddle

The track wastes no time in heading uphill. Following a 4WD track, it’s steep the whole way to the saddle at 1380 m, which takes about 2 hours to cover the 5 km distance. Just a couple of minutes in, you’ll pass Back Hut, a small shelter that’s worth a quick look.

As you climb, the views open dramatically: down to Lake Ōhau, across to the Ōhau Ski Field, and up the vast Hopkins Valley.

Summit Push

At the saddle, leave the 4WD track and follow the fence line towards the summit. A worn ground trail makes the route clear, leading to a weather station perched on the top. It’s only about 15 minutes from the saddle, but expect strong winds—it’s an exposed spot!

The summit rewards you with big 360-degree views across the Mackenzie Basin and into the Southern Alps.

Along the Ridge and Down Greta Stream

After soaking in the views, return to the saddle and continue along the ridge line on the 4WD track. The route soon drops steeply, eventually joining the Greta Stream Track.

This trail leads you down into the stream valley, following the watercourse until it meets the road again—finishing opposite Greta Lodge, a humble old shack that marks the end of the circuit.

Track Stats

• Distance: 16 km circuit

• Time: 6 hours

• Elevation: 1380 m at the saddle, higher at the summit

• Start/Finish: Glen Lyon Road (finish opposite Greta Lodge)

• Highlights: Views of Lake Ōhau, Hopkins Valley, Mackenzie Basin; summit weather station; remote high-country feel.

Tips for the Trip

• Steep terrain: the 4WD track is consistently uphill—poles help on both the climb and descent.

• Wind: Ben Ohau’s summit is notoriously blustery—pack warm layers.

• Water: carry enough for the day; streams may not always be reliable.

• Time: allow at least 6 hours, more if you like to linger at the top.

This Ben Ohau–Greta Stream circuit is a proper Mackenzie high-country adventure. It’s steep, exposed, and challenging in places, but the views are some of the most rewarding in the region.

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