In the heart of the Darran Mountains lies one of Fiordland’s gems, Adelaide Saddle, a journey brimming with adventure, beauty and discovery.

The journey starts at a swing bridge across Hollyford River on the Moraine Creek Track, about 1km from the end of Lower Hollyford Road. 

Tent Flat, reached after about 3.5 hours of traversing lush rainforest, marks the onset of the real adventure. Self-navigation becomes key as you tackle creeks, scrub and occasional cairns to the base of Apirana Peak.

The moraine extends from the bushline to Lake Adelaide. Instead of negotiating massive boulders, however, walk along the west side close to steep granite walls. This route leads to a ledge on the west of the lake and grants relatively easy access to the lake head – a stunning cirque walled by sheer granite. Two rock bivvies offer shelter here.

Ascend to the saddle via Gifford Crack, where vegetation and a head for heights are indispensable. The steep 200m gut ends at Adelaide   Saddle, where breathtaking vistas unfold in a single, awe-inspiring moment. 

You can return the same way from here, or continue to Barrier Knob, where snow may be encountered even in late summer. Camp at Gertrude Saddle, an ideal point for both sunset and sunrise, before descending to Milford Sound  Highway via the Gertrude Valley Track.