There is no shortage of open tussock land in the Canterbury backcountry. Throw in a tarn and you have the perfect destination for an overnight trip.

Follow the fence-line until you find a convenient spot to leave the track and cross Cameron River.

Once on the far side, a direct line up the hill – the steep river banks being the hardest terrain on this otherwise easy trip.After just two hours across easy tussock-covered slopes, you arrive at the tarn on the 1200m contour with a choice of great tent sites.

More adventures await the tireless tramper who has set up camp early.

The climb to the summit of Staces Hill is an easy 30min. The summit offers great views of the Arrowsmith Range, the Lake Heron Valley and the Southern Alps.