Lake Sylvan Track

Loop

After about 40 minutes of walking, the forest opens up to reveal the tranquil shores of Lake Sylvan. The transition from the dense, shaded bush to the wide-open lakefront is breath-taking. From the viewing platform, you can look out across the water, which often sits as still as a mirror, reflecting the surrounding hills and the snowy peaks of the National Park.

Highlights & Must-See Features

The undisputed star of the show is the Lake Sylvan viewing platform. On a clear, calm day, the lake acts as a giant mirror for Mt Earnslaw (Pikirakatahi). Seeing the hanging glaciers and rugged ridges of Earnslaw reflected in the dark, tannin-stained waters of the lake is a sight that rivals any of the more famous viewpoints in the region.

While the lake view is the primary drawcard, the return leg of the loop offers a fascinating shift in atmosphere. If you choose to complete the full circuit rather than retracing your steps, you will follow the route of a 1920s tramline. This wasn't for passengers, but for industry; it was once used to transport scheelite (a valuable ore used in steel production) from a nearby mine.

Walking along this section, you can still see old wooden sleepers embedded in the earth—ghostly remnants of a bygone era when this quiet forest was a hub of industrial activity. It adds a layer of historical intrigue to the natural beauty, reminding us of the hardy pioneers who worked these rugged valleys a century ago.

For the keen anglers, the lake is also a known haven for brown trout. While you’ll need a license and a bit of patience, watching these fish rise in the evening light adds to the serene, untouched feel of the location.

Getting There

To find the trailhead, take the scenic drive from Glenorchy toward the Routeburn Track. Follow the Glenorchy-Routeburn Road for approximately 30 minutes. The drive itself is world-class, skirting the edges of the lake and crossing the Dart River bridge with views that will have you reaching for your camera every five minutes.

The Lake Sylvan Campground car park is well-signposted on the left-hand side of the road, just before you reach the final bridge to the Routeburn Shelter. There is ample parking available, and the facilities at the campground make it a great spot to organize your gear before heading off.

Wildlife Spotting

Lake Sylvan is a sanctuary for some of New Zealand’s most charming feathered residents. Because the area is part of an 'Operation Ark' site, intensive predator control is carried out here to protect endangered species. This means the birdlife is significantly more prolific than in many other parts of the country.

• Fantail (pīwakawaka): These friendly little birds are almost guaranteed to join you. They love the insects stirred up by hikers' boots and will often flit within a metre of your face, performing acrobatic displays.
• New Zealand Robin (toutouwai): Look for these curious, leggy birds on the forest floor. If you stop and scuff the dirt with your boot, a robin will often hop over to see what tasty morsels you’ve uncovered.
• Rifleman (tītipiti): Keep an eye on the beech trunks for New Zealand’s smallest bird. They look like tiny green ping-pong balls with wings and move with incredible speed in a spiral pattern up the trees.
• Yellowhead (mōhua): This is the "holy grail" of bird spotting at Lake Sylvan. These bright yellow, endangered birds are rare, but the Operation Ark efforts mean they are holding on in this valley. Listen for their loud, chattering song in the high canopy.

Tip: The best time for bird watching is early morning or late afternoon when the forest is at its most vocal.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Lake Sylvan Track is a true four-season destination, with each time of year offering a unique perspective on the landscape.

• Spring: The forest is vibrant and lush, and the birdlife is at its most active and vocal. The river is often high and impressive from snowmelt.
• Summer: The deep shade of the beech forest provides a welcome escape from the Otago sun. This is the best time for a picnic by the lake.
• Autumn: The light turns golden, and the air becomes incredibly still, leading to the best "mirror" reflections on the lake.
• Winter: While there may be a dusting of snow on the track, the crisp, cold days often bring the clearest skies, making the views of Mt Earnslaw even more dramatic.

• Sturdy Footwear: While the track is easy, the tramline section of the loop can become boggy after rain. If it has been wet, waterproof boots are highly recommended.
• Sandfly Repellent: Like much of the West Coast and Glenorchy area, the sandflies at the lakeside viewing platform can be persistent. Bring some "bushman’s" repellent to ensure you can enjoy the view in peace.
• Layers: Even in summer, the shade of the beech forest can be cool. Bring a light fleece or windbreaker.
• A Small River Crossing: Note that on the tramline section, there is a very small stream crossing that may require a hop across some rocks.

Local & Regional Context

This area is deeply significant to both Māori and early European settlers. To Ngāi Tahu, the local iwi (tribe), the Dart and Routeburn valleys were part of the traditional trails used to access pounamu (greenstone) on the West Coast. The majestic Mt Earnslaw, or Pikirakatahi, is a sacred peak in Māori tradition, often associated with the legends of the creation of the southern lakes.

In the late 1800s and early 1900s, the focus shifted to mining. The scheelite found in these hills was a vital resource during the World Wars, and the remnants of the tramline on the Lake Sylvan Track serve as a physical link to that rugged industrial heritage. Today, the area is part of the Te Wahipounamu – South West New Zealand World Heritage Area, recognized globally for its outstanding natural values.

After the Walk

After you’ve completed the loop and returned to your car, you’ll likely have worked up an appetite. Head back into Glenorchy (30 mins drive) to refuel at one of the local favourites:

• Mrs Woolly’s General Store: A must-visit for hikers. Their "Full Monty" gelato or a fresh gourmet pie is the perfect reward for your efforts. They also have a fantastic range of local crafts and quality outdoor gear.
• The Glenorchy Hotel: If you’re after something more substantial, this historic pub offers classic "Kiwi" hospitality. Grab a seat by the fire in winter or out on the deck in summer and enjoy a burger and a local craft beer while looking back at the mountains you just explored.

Lake Sylvan is proof that you don't need to climb a mountain to find magic in New Zealand. It’s a peaceful, restorative walk that leaves you feeling more connected to the ancient spirit of the South Island.