Ryton Track | Lake Ida & Lake Catherine

Ryton Track

Hidden in the Canterbury high country, Lake Ida and Lake Catherine are two alpine lakes that make for a stunning day hike. Starting from Harper Road near Lake Coleridge, the track is a mix of farm easements, tussock country, and gentle climbs, rewarding you with wide open views and sparkling alpine waters.

Getting There

The hike begins from Harper Road, not far from Lake Coleridge village. Parking is limited, so be mindful of where you leave your car and avoid blocking farm access. From here, the track follows a well marked and graded trail through tussock slopes and farm easements before climbing gradually towards Lake Ida.

Lake Ida

Lake Ida is the first highlight of the trip. Nestled in a basin surrounded by tussock and Little Mt Ida, it’s a peaceful alpine lake with a long history—once home to a natural ice-skating club, it was a popular winter spot for locals. Today, it’s a quiet place for walkers to pause, enjoy lunch by the shore, and soak in the stillness.

From the lake edge, you can explore the remains of Bert Lyttle’s Lodge and skating facilities, adding a nostalgic layer to the visit.

Side Trip to Lake Catherine

From Lake Ida, a marked route leads you on to Lake Catherine (Lake Monck), tucked just a little further into the hills. The walk between the two lakes doesn’t take long and offers another chance to see the unique character of Canterbury’s alpine basins. Lake Catherine is larger and less visited than Lake Ida, but just as beautiful, especially on a calm day when the surrounding peaks reflect in the water.

The Return

After exploring both lakes, you’ll retrace your steps back to Harper Road. The return leg offers more chances to take in the sweeping views across the Coleridge basin and surrounding ranges, reminding you how special this pocket of the South Island really is.

Quick Tips

• Track time – allow 4–5 hours return, including the side trip to Lake Catherine.

• Access – the hike crosses farmland, so respect gates, livestock, and landowners.

• Gear – pack warm layers, food, water, and sun protection. Even on a fine day, the high country weather can change quickly.

• Leave No Trace – take all rubbish with you and respect the lakeshore environments.

Why Go?

This day hike has something for everyone—open country walking, high country scenery, fascinating history, and two beautiful alpine lakes to discover. If you’re looking for a moderately easy adventure in the Canterbury backcountry, Lake Ida and Lake Catherine are hard to beat.

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