Discover Mount Iron
Mount Iron is a prominent hill with a distinctive cliff face located near the township of Wānaka. This area is a favourite among locals for the accessible Mount Iron Track, which can be completed as a one-way hike from two locations or as a loop. While the 240-metre climb can be steep, it provides hikers with panoramic views and interesting geological history.
The Mount Iron Track Experience
The Mount Iron Track offers two distinct hiking experiences. Starting from the car park off State Highway 84, the west side of the track presents a moderately steep and continuous ascent. This section is relatively exposed, with steep grasslands inhabited by rabbits.
The path can be challenging in hot, windy, and dusty conditions. However, the view over Wānaka and the lake is a significant highlight. The climb to the top takes about 30 minutes, where you'll find informative panels detailing the area's glaciation history. Mount Iron's harder rock resisted the ice grinding that shaped the lake and the surrounding landscape.
Completing the Loop
From the summit, you can either return the way you came or continue to the east side track to complete the loop. The east side is a more engaging hike, well-sheltered by kānuka forest and providing cliff-edge views over Albert Town and Hāwea as you descend. The track is rocky in places but remains manageable. At the bottom, you can access Racecourse Road or continue around the base of the cliffs, noticeable for several large rocks, to the car park on State Highway 84.
An Enchanting Moss Feature
One particularly enchanting part of the east side track is a section where vibrant green moss grows beneath the kānuka, creating a rainforest-like atmosphere in this typically dry region. This area is especially magical when wet, adding a surprising element to the hike.
How to Get There
To reach Mount Iron, head to the car park off State Highway 84 at the southwest end of the hill or start from Old Racecourse Road on the east side. Both entry points provide access to the loop track.
Other walks in Wānaka include the Beacon Point Walk, the Outlet Track, the Glendhu Bay Track, and walks around Bullock Creek.
