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Cascade Saddle Assisted Trek - 2 days
Is the weather good enough? Where does the track start? Do I need to carry water? How do I get there? Should we go if it is foggy? What equipment do I need?
Instead of guesswork - use a guide! we provide a guide to help you get started and you do the rest. We provide transport from Wanaka to get your trip started and give you valuable logistical support and advice to make sure your trip has the greatest chance of success.
The ascent to the Pylon at the top of the saddle, is steep and exposed and often people need a little help and advice on the first day of the trip. Our guide escorts you safely over the top. Your guide will stay with you until you feel confident to continue on your own down to the Dart hut and then he/she will return to Wanaka. If you want, for an extra charge, we can even relocate your vehicle to Glenorchy saving you valuable time on your holiday!
Cascade Saddle (1524m) is world famous for its spectacular views of Mt Aspiring. It links the majestic West Matukituki and Dart Valleys that lie in the Mount Aspiring National Park.
The trip begins with a gear check and a scenic drive through the Matukituki Valley (saves you the cost of a bus and you can ). A two hour gentle walk brings you to Aspiring hut where you may spend the night. If the weather permit we prefer to casmp out at tree line which is a big advantage the next day. The trail is exposed and traverses several rocky bluffs. In good weather the track is straight forward, steep and exposed. If the weather is not perfect, you will be especially glad to have an experienced guide along!
Once you are on top (3-5 hours) the trail traverses an alpine valley until it begins its descent into the Dart Valley. If the weather changes or visibility is poor this section of the trip can be very difficult for even experienced walkers and hikers. The guide stays with you until you are comfortable.
Logistics
| Duration |
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2 days
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| Cost |
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NZ $750 *
The price is the same whether you are a party of one or four.
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| Access |
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Aspiring Guides provides transport to the the start of the track which means that you do not have to worry about leaving a car. Clients to arrange own transport out of Dart Valley at the end of the trip.
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| Guide Ratio |
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1 guide to 4 clients maximum
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| Season |
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November - April
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| Prerequisites |
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Trekking and hiking experience required for long days walking. Good balance.
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| Accommodation |
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Aspiring Hut or camping option
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| Camping Equipment |
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Camping equipment can be hired if party opts to camp just above tree line on first night instead of overnight at Aspiring hut.
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* Includes your qualified and friendly guide to the Dart Valley, gear and equipment check, weather and track information, ground transport from Wanaka (transport from Queenstown $35 pp extra) to Raspberry Flat in the Matukituki Valley, permit fees, 12.5% NZ Goods and Services tax. Camping Equipment, food and hut fees not included in price. |
