Discoveries to Uncover | Mountain Burns
Exploring the Mount Burns Tarns: A Challenging Hike in Fiordland National Park
Nestled in a less-crowded area of Fiordland National Park lies the Mount Burns Tarns, a breathtaking alpine destination that offers a unique blend of challenging terrain and exceptional biodiversity.
The journey begins on the Borland Road, north of Lake Monowai, where the initial part of the track presents a steep climb through forest dominated by Lophozonia menziesii, commonly known as silver beech. After about 10 minutes, the track emerges, rewarding hikers with views of the sharp treeline on the mountains across the Grebe Valley.
The climb continues through alpine tussockland, home to the most diverse range of snow tussock species in New Zealand. The exceptional diversity of the Mount Burns Tarns area is due to the unique environmental conditions where the drier Southland and Otago climates intersect with the wetter western Fiordland climate.
For those seeking a guided experience, the Department of Conservation (DOC) offers a guided walk called "Discover the Alpine World" led by DOC botanist Brian Rance on January 15th, 2022. This walk offers a chance to learn about the unique adaptations of plants in this environment.
Mount Burns itself, a challenging steep climb approximately 10km (6-7 hours return), is an optional extension for the more adventurous hikers. The route to Mount Burns is not marked, so it requires sound navigational skills. It's important to note that the road is suitable for 4WD and some other vehicles depending on conditions, but it is not suitable for campervans, caravans, or trailers.
Visitors are encouraged to stick to the track and tread carefully to protect this fragile alpine area. Proper preparation is crucial, as there is no fuel, communication (including cell phone coverage), or emergency services along the road. Hikers should go prepared for all weather conditions and can download the free Plan My Walk app or consult the Land Safety Code for tips on how to prepare and what to pack.
For further exploration, consider venturing out to Green Lake Hut as an overnight tramping trip, or for a difficult walk, you can tackle the Eldrig Peak Route. The best time to attempt the track is in the summer months between November and March. Always check the DOC webpage beforehand for alerts/closures along the road.
The Mount Burns Tarns walk, a short (1km, 45min return) but challenging advanced tramping track, offers a chance to explore the rich plant life, serving as a great opportunity to catch one's breath during steep uphill sections. At the end of the track, hikers are met by the beautiful alpine tarns nestled amongst the golden tussocks, with views of Island and Green Lakes in the distance.
The Mount Burns area is home to several species endemic to Fiordland and over a dozen nationally threatened ones. This pristine alpine environment is a testament to the beauty and diversity of New Zealand's natural landscapes, making the Mount Burns Tarns a must-visit destination for any nature enthusiast.
