Hike to Gertrude Saddle
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About this place
Breathtaking views of the Gertrude Valley, Mount Crosscut, and part of Milford Sound in the Fjordlands. The Gertrude Saddle track is an excellent day-hike, passing through the glaciated Gertrude Valley past waterfalls and alpine lakes ending with a fantastic view.
The trail begins at the signposted car park along Milford Road just before the Homer Tunnel, about 98km from Te Anau. Follow the marked track through the valley and left, steeply uphill. About halfway up you will cross the Gertrude Stream below a large, steep waterfall.
Upon reaching Black Lake, continue up to your right. There are steel cabins to assist with the climb, as the rock can be slippery when wet or icy. Scramble up the boulders to gain the saddle.
As an option, Barrier Nob to the NE is easily climbed, though snow and ice can persist late into the summer, so crampons and an ice axe are recommended.
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