Mt Gladwish (1861m) lies on the ridge that separates Hāwea and Ahuriri conservation parks.  Climbing this peak can be part of a three-day loop that includes alpine ridge travel, beech forest, a high camp (in snow during winter) and a snug hut nestled in the valley. It can be done at any time of year, though expect snow on the tops during winter.

The route initially follows the Dingleburn Route, a well-formed track once used to drive cattle to the Dingle Burn Valley from Birchwood Road. It begins in forest, but mainly climbs through tussock, zig-zagging its way to the saddle at 1448m. The small stream the track crosses provides the only water until you reach the Dingle Burn Valley.

From the saddle the untracked route heads south along the ridge towards Mt Gladwish, passing Pts1576 and 1626 and, after 3km, Pt1719. In winter this route will be covered in snow, but even so travel is easy and enjoyable over mainly gentle snow slopes with panoramic views on either side. If it’s icy, an ice axe and crampons will be required. Descending the southern side of Pt1719 is steeper but not technical.  

After a large flat area near Pt1703 – a good campsite – the climb to Gladwish is straightforward. The views from the top are breathtaking and include Mt Barth, Mt Huxley, Celtic Peak – even The Remarkables and Tititea/Mt Aspiring. 

The spur off Pt1719 provides a straightforward, untracked descent through tussock and dracophyllum to the floor of the Dingle Burn Valley. Turn north and follow Dingle Burn Valley Track to the six-bunk hut, which is nestled on the edge of beech forest with good views across the valley. Top Dingle is popular in summer. 

From the hut, the track follows attractive grassy flats for 500m before climbing steeply through beech forest. At 1100m, a poled route climbs and sidles through scrub and tussock back to the saddle above the Ahuriri River. From there, retrace your steps down the old cattle track to Birchwood Road.

This trip involves untracked travel, so requires suitable experience. In winter and spring, carry ice axes and crampons and check avalanche conditions before you go.