Blue Pools Track, Mount Aspiring National Park

From the highway into beech forest

Blue Pools Track starts at the well-signposted car park off Haast Highway (SH6), about halfway between Wānaka and Haast. From Wānaka, the car park is 10 km after Makarora township. It has free parking for cars and campervans, including two marked mobility spaces, plus toilets and an accessible toilet. DOC

The route follows a gravel path with rocky sections through native silver beech/tāwhai forest. Bloodwood dominates the shrubland near the start, while silver beech is the most common tree along the track. Birds that may be seen or heard include bellbird, grey warbler, rifleman and yellowhead. DOC

Two bridges, two river views

After 30 min, the path reaches a swing bridge over the Makarora River. Cross it and follow the track to the left; after 2 min, a second swing bridge spans the Blue Pools. Crossing this bridge gives views of the pools and the river gorge. DOC

At the second bridge the route becomes Young River Link Track. For the Blue Pools outing, return to the car park the same way. The bridges are key landmarks as well as viewpoints: the short walk’s shape is a forest approach followed by a river crossing and an elevated look down toward the pools. Do not jump from the swing bridges; rivers can hide hazards and behave unpredictably. DOC

Colour depends on conditions

The pools are fed by snow from the Southern Alps/Kā Tiritiri o te Moana. Their blue, clear appearance depends on recent weather: they are clearest when it has not rained recently and on a sunny day. After heavy rain, the water can turn brown and muddy, so the same short walk may offer a different view from one visit to another. DOC

The track is popular year-round, but crowds are more likely during summer, from November to April, when the car park also gets very busy. The walk can be crowded then. The source recommends checking the forecast because New Zealand weather changes quickly. DOC

Practical choices at the trailhead

Bookings are not required, and drinking water is not available at the car park, so bring your own. Sandflies can be fierce; insect repellent is a useful addition. Cameron Flat Campsite is across the road, while Makarora township has limited food and petrol options. DOC

The listed route is 3.2 km return via the same track, with a listed time of 1 hr 30 min return. No dogs are allowed. Take rubbish away, avoid washing in the pools, and leave rocks in place: the source notes that rock cairns can alter natural ecosystems. DOC