About This Route
Mackinnon Pass Out-and-Back from Glade Wharf covers about 25 kilometers round-trip on the Milford Track, summiting at 1,173 meters with panoramic Fiordland views. This advanced section features steep climbs through beech forest, the pass saddle with tarns, and descent past cascading waterfalls. Discovered by Quintin Mackinnon in 1888, it's a glacial legacy. Ideal for runners building to full Milford or testing Fiordland conditions; DOC permits required for track access.
Safety Considerations
High winds and fog obscure visibility at the pass; whiteout risks hypothermia. Trails are narrow, eroded, and root-strewn; poles aid stability. Monitor DOC avalanche reports (winter risk high). Start early (5 AM) to beat crowds/heat; hydration critical with no streams en route after Mintaro. Sandflies harass below 800 meters. Comply with DOC track rules: no dogs, yield to trampers. Train on NZAPP-approved steeps like Ruapehu tracks.
Essential Gear
Hoka Speedgoat 6 GTX shoes for waterproof grip, Black Diamond Distance poles, Nathan VaporKrar 4L vest. Montbell Plasma 1000 jacket, Smartwool PhD socks, Buff. Suunto Vertical watch with altimeter, paper map, SPOT Gen4 tracker, Petzl headlamp, emergency bivy (SOL), energy stash (Tailwind nutrition, nuts), repair kit, sunscreen, insect repellent (DEET).
Emergency Tips
Fallen at pass: use poles as signal, descend to Mintaro Hut radio. Lost: follow cairns/poles downhill. Injury: stabilize, PLB out. Rescue via helicopter from pass or Glade Wharf.