Photo: Simon Foley

Glacial beginnings

June 2024

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June 2024

Cameron Hut, Hakatere Conservation Park. By Simon Foley

Located in a glacial basin at the head of the Cameron Valley, Cameron Hut is best known for its pink door.

No matter the season, you are in for a treat at the end of the valley where this Canterbury Mountaineering Club hut is located. From a dry barren environment full of moraine in summer to a white wonderland in winter, you will not be disappointed. 

Many people use the hut as a way point for climbing the peaks in the Arrowsmith Range and as access to Cameron Glacier, so it can be busy on long weekends. However, there is plenty of room for tents around the hut. There is no heating, so bring a sleeping bag suitable for the conditions.

From the trailhead, stay on the true right of the Cameron River. There is a marked track for most of the way, but the overgrown scrub, Spaniard and matagouri make it hard to follow in places. 

June 2024

Read more from

June 2024

Distance
16km
Total Ascent
800m
Grade
Moderate
Time
6hr
Accom.
Cameron Hut (nine bunks, $10. CMC members free)
Access
Ashburton Gorge Road onto Hakatere Heron Road. Gravel track at gravel pit on left that leads through a locked gate
Map
BW18

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Cameron Hut.Hakatere (gpx, 36 KB)

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