New Zealand is truly a hiker’s paradise, boasting thousands of kilometers of trails, incredible backcountry huts, and jaw-dropping scenery. Whether you’re after a short, scenic walk or an epic multi-day tramp, there’s something for everyone.
One trail that absolutely deserves a spot on your New Zealand bucket list is the Copland Track on the West Coast. This overnight hike takes you through lush rainforest, alongside the stunning Copland River, and across several thrilling swing bridges before reaching Welcome Flat Hut.
And the best part? Once you arrive at the hut, you can soak in the Welcome Flat Hot Pools, three natural thermal pools right next to the hut.
Hiking all day, then sinking into a natural hot spring? Yes, please!
The Copland Track is hands down one of the best backcountry hikes in New Zealand. Where else can you hike through remote valleys and finish the day in natural hot springs? If you’re looking for an unforgettable tramping experience on New Zealand’s West Coast, this is it!
How to get to the Copland Track
The Copland Track kicks off in Karangarua, roughly halfway between Fox Glacier and Haast Pass on New Zealand’s South Island. There isn’t much in Karangarua itself, so be sure to stock up on everything you need for the adventure (more on what to pack later!).
The car park is free, and it’s generally safe to leave your car overnight. That said, I’d still recommend taking valuables like passports and electronics with you, just in case. Also, don’t leave anything outside your car—Keas, New Zealand’s cheeky alpine parrots, are known to steal and chew on anything they can get their beaks on!
Hiking the Copland Track
Right after the car park, you cross Rough Creek. Although there’s no well-defined path here, you’ll see an orange marker on the opposite side of the creek to guide you.
The first section of the hike is fairly flat and winds through gorgeous native forest. You’ll catch glimpses of the turquoise Karangarua River. After about 6–7 km, you’ll reach the junction where the Copland River meets the Karangarua River, and from here, the trail heads deeper into the Copland Valley. This section is even more stunning but also gets a little more challenging, with some rocky scrambles along the way.
About halfway in, you’ll pass Architect Creek Flat and the small Architect Creek Hut (a basic 4-bunk hut). Beyond this, the trail starts to climb more steadily along the side of the valley. While there aren’t any crazy steep sections, you’ll definitely feel the incline by the time you get close to Welcome Flat Hut.
One of my absolute favorite parts of this hike are the swing bridges!
Some are only a foot wide and can be pretty wobbly, with nothing but a wire mesh floor beneath your feet. If you’re scared of heights, don’t look down—otherwise, enjoy the epic views!
After crossing the longest bridge, it’s a short descent to the hut. If you arrive early enough, I’d recommend dumping your gear on a bed to claim your spot, then continuing on the Upper Copland Valley Track for a bit. This track heads towards Douglas Rock Hut and offers even better views of the surrounding Sierra Range and some amazing swimming spots along the river.
Day 2
The second day follows the same route back to the car park. It’s always easier going downhill, and you’ll likely shave some time off your return journey.
About halfway back, I highly recommend stopping for a quick (and freezing!) dip in the Copland River. I’ve swum in plenty of rivers and lakes in New Zealand, but this one was next level—absolutely freezing but you’ll feel amazing afterwards!
From there, it’s one last push through the forest before arriving back at the car park. And just like that you have completed the Copland Track!
The Department of Conservation (DOC) classifies this as an intermediate tramp, meaning it’s suitable for those with moderate fitness and some backcountry experience. Personally, I didn’t find it too difficult or technical, but keep in mind it’s quite long, and you’ll be carrying a decent amount of gear. Plus, you have to hike the full distance back the next day—no shortcuts!
Important safety note: if Rough Creek is running high, all the unbridged side creeks along the track will be too dangerous to cross. If that’s the case, don’t attempt the hike. There is an emergency flood bridge about 45 minutes upstream from the car park if you need an alternative exit.
Where to stay on the Copland Track
The Welcome Flat Hut is a DOC hut with four dorm rooms that sleep a total of 31 people. Each room has a row of 7 to 8 mattresses, so don’t expect much privacy! There are tables and counters for meal prep, but no cooking facilities or utensils. You’ll need to bring all your own gear.
There’s also a small 4-bunk private room with extra amenities like a gas cooker, basic kitchen supplies, and a potbelly stove. This is a great option if you’re hiking with a group and want a little more comfort.
If you’d rather sleep under the stars, there’s a campsite nearby with six tent sites. Campers can use the hut’s water supply and toilets.
Booking your accommodation for the copland track
Bookings are essential for both the hut and the campsite, and you can book them through the DOC website. The Copland Track is super popular, especially around Christmas and New Year, so try to book well in advance. You can always change your booking later for a small fee if needed.
What to pack for the Copland Track
- Sturdy hiking boots with good grip—don’t attempt this track in sneakers.
- Warm layers, even in summer, plus a rain jacket.
- A good backpack with a waist belt for support.
- Sleeping bag or blanket (the hut doesn’t provide them).
- Cooking gear: gas cooker, gas canister, pot, plate, utensils.
- Water filter or purification tablets—the hut’s water isn’t guaranteed to be safe.
- Swimsuit & towel for the hot pools and river swims.
- Insect repellent—sandflies are brutal, especially in summer.
- First aid kit, including bandages, antiseptics, painkillers, and an emergency blanket.
If you want to make this a 3- or 4-day hike, consider continuing to Douglas Rock Hut, about 7 km beyond Welcome Flat Hut. I haven’t done this section yet, but it’s definitely on my list—it looks like an epic way to explore even more of the Copland Valley and Westland Tai Poutini National Park.
Where to stay near the Copland Track
Start your hike in the morning or at least before noon to make sure you get to the hut early enough to have a choice of bunks, and to have time to explore the surrounding area and soak in the hot pools.
For campers, the DOC campsite at Lake Paringa would be an awesome place to spend the night before or after the hike. The campsite is quite small and doesn’t have showers, but it’s located directly on the shores of Lake Paringa.
Additionally, here are various accommodation options at a decent price in Fox, for example the Westhaven Motel or Fox Glacier Lodge. And if you’re travelling north-bound, staying in Haast would be another convenient option too.
Check out Booking.com for awesome places to stay near the Copland Track and all over New Zealand.
Don’t forget to pin this post on Pinterest to save it for a future trip to New Zealand!
0 Comments