Epic Travel → Asia & the South Pacific → New Zealand → Otago → ⊗ Rees Valley Packrafting

⊗ Technical Route ⊗
♦ Intrepid Top Pick!

Warning: Do Not Attempt Without Proper Training – click here for details

Location: North Lake Wakatipu, Otago, New Zealand

Time Required: 1 day

Red Tape/Notes: Best done from Glenorchy or Kinloch (it’s a long drive from Queenstown). Whitewater and/or packrafting skills are required. If you don’t have the experience, or if you want to hang out with some great people, book a trip with our friends at Packrafting Queenstown.

What’s Nearby: Glenorchy Lagoon Walkway, Routeburn Track, Kinloch, Mt. Judah Track Scheelite Mine

If you’re in the Queenstown area and you’re looking to a) escape the crowds, b) soak up some scenery, and c) have a splash around in the water, this route is for you! Leave your car at the Snow Field Helipad, and hike in a few kilometers along the easy and surprisingly scenic Rees Valley Road until you reach the Muddy Creek carpark, where you can decide where to drop in to the river. You could also drop in earlier depending on the amount of time you have and your level of commitment – the rapids at and above Muddy Creek are the Class III section, so if you’re looking for a more low-key kind of day, hike downstream along the river from Muddy Creek until you reach calmer water. Scouting and portaging are easy along nearly the entire length of the river. You’ll pass by the track to the Invincible Mine on the way in, so you could do an epic hike/mine/packraft combo if you’ve got the time. Another more relaxing option is also available in this area if you park at Muddy Creek carpark and hike up the DoC track from there to 25 Mile Creek. This option is easy Class I cruising all the way home – an excellent way to do the return leg of a hike!

Epic Travel → Asia & the South Pacific → New Zealand → Otago → ⊗ Rees Valley Packrafting