This trail has no maintenance and no markers. It was so mysterious that we decided to challenge ourselves. Make sure to check the weather before setting out - there’s no fixed endpoint, you just go as far as you can. The start is all rock climbing, then you hit a 90-degree vertical rock face that requires ropes to ascend. The later section through the forested slope is covered in snow, extremely slippery, and every step requires grabbing tree roots for support. Having been traveling for over 20 days, we treated this mountain as our final challenge in New Zealand. Just as we decided to turn back, it started snowing - that snowfall became the perfect farewell gift to our mountain journey.
An unmaintained route; the path to the summit is not developed. Do not attempt the summit unless fully prepared. Vertical climbing required in places. Ice and snow persist in shaded areas, making the descent particularly slippery. As a very short route, extensive gear is not required.
Routes
Official DocsMount Aicken Track
An unmaintained route. The path to the summit is not developed—do not attempt without full preparation. Terrain transitions from riverbed rocks to steep vertical climbing sections. Upper sections involve navigating rock faces and loose scree. Forest sections can be extremely slippery with complex root systems; requires using trees for support. Ice and snow persist in shaded areas, especially on the descent.
Transport & Parking
Park at the Devil's Punchbowl car park. The entrance to Aicken Track is on the Punchbowl Track.
Environment
High-altitude alpine environment; snow and ice persist in shaded areas even in warmer months.