Exploring the Lake Daniell Track
Situated about 20 km west of Lewis Pass, the Lake Daniell Track is a captivating destination within the Maruia Waka Huia special biodiversity area. This region benefits from extensive pest-control efforts, preserving its pristine environment. The track leads you through one of New Zealand's most well-preserved beech forests, which was once considered for logging. Fortunately, this did not happen, allowing you to admire the grandeur of the giant red beech trees along the walk.
A Scenic and Accessible Walk
The track starts at the DOC Marble Hill campground. Early in the hike, you'll cross the Sluice Box bridge, which spans a particularly scenic short gorge. The path then follows the Alfred River and the Frazer Stream, with several elevated points with stunning views before reaching beautiful Lake Daniell. Along the way, there are several spots where you can access the river.
The Lake Daniell Track is known for its impressive stands of red beech trees (tawhai raunui), which form a towering canopy over much of the route. These ancient trees can reach heights of over 30 metres, with some estimated to be several hundred years old. Their gnarled trunks are cloaked in moss and lichens, typical of the area's high rainfall. Red beech forests once covered much of this region, but in the 1900s, large areas were logged, especially after WWII, when native timber was in high demand.
By the 1970s, the anti-logging movement gained momentum across New Zealand. In the Maruia Valley in 1975, about 40 conservationists camped on the snow-covered banks of the Maruia River near Lewis Pass. They signed the Maruia Declaration of 1975, challenging the proposed clear-felling in the area. This led to the creation of the Lewis Pass Scenic Reserve in 1981, followed by further expansion of protections for beech and podocarp forests around Maruia in 1997. Today, efforts focus on eliminating pest animals that harm the trees and the ecosystem.
Track Details and Accommodation
The Lake Daniell Track is relatively easy, with no significant climbs, making it accessible for most walkers. Allow approximately 2.5 hours each way. For those wishing to extend their stay, there is a DOC hut and campsite located beside the lake. Lake Daniell is also a lovely spot to relax and swim.
How to Get There
To reach the start of the Lake Daniell Track, take State Highway 7 from Lewis Pass, heading south to the east of Springs Junction to the west. Look for the Marble Hill Campsite access road and drive to the end of this road to find the trailhead.
Nearby, you can explore other attractions in the Lewis Pass area, including Maruia Springs, Inangahua Swingbridge, and the historic goldfields and forests around Reefton.
