Things to do in Hanmer Springs, Mt Isobel track (Clarence Valley carpark start)

Mt Isobel is as iconic as the thermal pools are in Hanmer Springs.

Our Star rating is 4 ½ out of 5 (from Hanmer Apartments).

There are 2 alternatives to summit that we recommend, Clarence Valley carpark start (5 ½ to 7 hours return) or Jacks Pass start (3 to 4 hours return). Both are demanding with some steep climbs. This blog describes the Clarence Valley carpark start only. Refer to our Jacks Pass start blog for those details.

Distance is 10 km return, route type is “out & back”.

Elevation gain is 790 m up & same back down, time required is 5 ½ to 7 hours return.
Fitness required is good intermediate (if you are not used to longer walks with incline, do not attempt).
​Sensible walking shoes or boots required.
NZTopo50 – BU24

Maximum elevation is 1320 m (great 360° view from summit of Lewis Pass around to the coastline).

Features:

Track starts from 2 km up Clarence Valley Road towards Jacks Pass.

Tramp through Japanese & European larches before entering sub-alpine scrub / open grassland,
then beyond to the summit with breath-taking views over the Hanmer Basin & out beyond
towards Rainbow & Molesworth stations & coastline.

Some steep spots on track, so not for novices.

​Be careful near summit as loose shingle can trip you up.

How to get there:
From Hanmer Springs travel north up Clarence Valley Road (unsealed) for 2 km
until you reach the small carpark next to an old water tank.
(Total is 10 minutes’ drive from the thermal pools).

Safety:
Plan your trip, tell someone your plans.
Be aware of the weather
​(if you cannot see the summit before starting out, do not attempt).
Take sufficient supplies, know your limits.
Do not attempt after high rainfall locally.

Tip:
Bring along water & snack food for summit rest before heading back.
Further advice:
Naturally, you can ask Amy or Shane at Hanmer Apartments when you stay with us!