Challenging Overnight Hike to Pell Stream Hut

Embark on an unforgettable outdoor adventure as I explore the challenging Pell Stream Track that begins at Marble Hill Camp Ground, nestled along the scenic Lewis Pass Highway between Canterbury and the West Coast. This charming campground serves as the starting point for hikers and trampers who are highly experienced in New Zealand's backcountry to tackle the Pell Stream Track. With stunning landscapes, rich history, and a variety of route options to choose from, there’s something for every adventurer. In this blog, I'll guide you through everything you need to know to reach Pell Stream Hut for an overnight hike, from essential tips and track descriptions to insights on navigating the challenging terrain.

Before I dive into this blog post, I want to emphasize that this hike is challenging and should not be underestimated. Don't be misled by its proximity to the family-friendly Lake Daniells Track; this trail isn’t marked on the topo map for a reason. Route-finding and navigation skills are essential. Expect to encounter a lot of river travel, so it's crucial to check weather forecasts, as low river levels can significantly impact safety. If the hike becomes too difficult, don’t hesitate to turn back.

Starting and End Point

The large Marble Hill Camp Ground, located along the Lewis Pass Highway between Canterbury and the West Coast, serves as the gateway to both the Pell Stream Track and the family-friendly Lake Daniells Track.

Be sure to drive all the way to the end of the camp ground, past the campervan and tent sites, toilets, shelters, to find the trail head and hikers car park.

Since this area is quite popular, vehicles are generally safe here.

The Track

There are three routes to access the Pell Stream Track from Marble Hill. Regardless of which route you choose, plan for a hiking duration of approximately 5.5 to 6.5 hours to reach the hut from the car park.

Here are the three options to start your hike from Marble Hill to the Pell Stream Track:

1. Begin on the Lake Daniells Track, cross the Sluice Box, and follow this well-graded and wide track as it meanders alongside the Arnold River until you reach the Pell Stream sign. Then, cross the Arnold River and continue along the 4WD track, which passes near Blackadder Rest. It’s worth taking a slight detour to explore the history of gold mining in this area. Continue up the hill on this 4WD track to reach the Pell Stream Track sign.

2. Starting on the Lake Daniells Track, cross the Sluice Box and follow the track for about 10 minutes until you arrive at the Arnold River sign. Cross the Arnold River and follow it until you connect with the 4WD track. Proceed on this track for about an hour, which will lead you directly to the Pell Stream Track sign. If you’d like to visit Blackadder Rest, it’s approximately 40 minutes round trip from this track sign.

3. You can also follow the 4WD track directly from the campground. This route leads straight to the Pell Stream Track sign, and you can take a short side trip (40 minutes round trip) to visit Blackadder Rest as well.

Reaching Pell Stream Hut from the Pell Stream Track Sign on the 4WD Track:

Once you reach the Pell Stream Track sign, it’s best to approach this challenging hike in three sections. The first section of the track is well-marked and maintained, allowing for efficient travel until you reach Gilchrist Creek, where the real challenge begins.

The three sections are as follows:

1. 4WD to Gilchrist Creek

2. Gilchrist Creek to an Unnamed Side Creek

3. Unnamed Side Creek to Pell Stream Hut

Section 1:

This part of the trail is well-graded and marked as it gradually climbs over Point 660m. The high point is marked by a lone waratah with spray paint at the top. After this high point, the track steeply descends to Gilchrist Creek. You'll need to traverse a washout via a short, high sidle above Pell Stream. From this point, you will continue upstream until you reach the unnamed side creek.

Section 2

Traveling here mainly involves navigating the river, requiring crossings between gravel banks and rocky areas. Safe passage is dependent on low water levels. While there are some remnants of a bush trail that is occasionally marked, you will likely spend more time searching for markers and finding your way along the trail.

Section 3

At the unnamed side creek, there is a large slip that must be navigated. Large logs have washed up against both sides of the creek, and it may be possible to climb along one of these logs to scale the slip directly. However, a better and safer option is to move slightly up the side creek, look for a small rock cairn, and climb the grassy bank to the mossy terrace. From there, you can sidle around to the marked track and climb steeply up to point 760m. A head for heights and the ability to navigate narrow, exposed areas are essential, as this section presents a significant challenge.

The trail then continues through the beech forest before descending back down to Pell Stream. Follow the stream for the final 2 km to reach Pell Stream Hut. Alternatively, there is another bush section that heads inland and ascends over another point at 760m before arriving opposite the hut.

Pell Stream Hut is situated at the edge of the beech forest in a small clearing. If you are in the stream, it can be seen from about 800 meters away.

Track Times:

Marble Hill to Pell Streak Track sign 1 to 1.5 hours

Pell Stream Track sign to Pell Stream Hut 4.5 to 5 hours

Pell Stream Hut

Facilities at the hut:

• Open fire that will smoke if the door is closed when lit, ash bucket

• Axe and saw and wood around for the fire

• Long drop

• Water from the nearby Pell Stream, bucket for water

• 4 bunks

• Cooking bench

• Two bench seats, no table

Helpful Links There is great information and track details on the Remote Huts website: https://www.remotehuts.co.nz/pell-stream-hut.html

Basic information on Pell Stream Hut from Department of Conservation: https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/west-coast/places/lewis-pass-scenic-reserve/things-to-do/huts/pell-stream-hut/