Potts River Track - Potts River Car Park to Mystery Lake

Out and back

Highlights & Must-See Features

The ultimate prize of this hike is, of course, Mystery Lake. Tucked away at an altitude of about 1,100 metres, this sub-alpine tarn is nestled perfectly between a distinctive camel-hump-shaped foothill and the steeper slopes of the Dogs Range. The water is often still and crystal clear, reflecting the surrounding peaks like a mirror. It’s the perfect spot for a long lunch and a bit of quiet reflection before heading back.

Geology buffs will find plenty to geek out over along the way. The area is famous for its roche moutonnées—rocky knobs that were smoothed and sculpted by ancient glaciers moving down the valley thousands of years ago. These "sheep-backed" rocks give the landscape a lumpy, prehistoric feel. You’ll also encounter vast scree slopes, where the mountains seem to be slowly melting into the valleys in a tumble of grey slate.

A surprising botanical highlight is the presence of Hall’s tōtara. In a landscape that looks almost entirely treeless, these hardy native conifers manage to thrive in sheltered pockets. Seeing these ancient, gnarled trees standing defiant against the alpine elements is a powerful reminder of the resilience of New Zealand’s native flora.

Getting There

To find the trailhead, you’ll need to head into the heart of the Ashburton Lakes district. From the small township of Mount Somers, drive approximately 40 kilometres west along Ashburton Gorge Road. As you venture deeper into the mountains, the road transitions into Hakatere Potts Road.

Keep an eye out for the Potts River Car Park, which is a large, obvious pull-off bay on the left-hand side of the road, just before you cross the bridge over the Potts River. If you’ve crossed the bridge, you’ve gone too far! The drive itself is spectacular, passing through the Hakatere "Lord of the Rings" country, so make sure you have plenty of petrol before leaving Mount Somers, as there are no stations out here.

Wildlife Spotting

While the high country might look empty at first glance, it is teeming with specialized birdlife if you know where to look.

• New Zealand Pipit (Pihoihoi): These are very common and will often fly just a few metres ahead of you on the track, leading the way. They are streaky brown birds that love the open tussock.
• Paradise Shelduck (Pūtangitangi): You’ll likely hear their distinctive honking long before you see them. They are often found near the riverbed or the lake.
• Kea: Keep your eyes on the higher ridges and your ears open for their "kee-aa" call. These cheeky alpine parrots are occasional visitors to the area.
• Wrybill and Black-fronted Tern: If you are visiting in Spring or Summer, keep an eye on the braided riverbeds. These rare birds nest among the stones, relying on their incredible camouflage to stay safe.
• Rock Wren (Pīwauwau): If you’re very lucky and quiet near the rocky scree sections, you might spot this tiny, bobbing bird. They are New Zealand’s only true alpine bird and are a rare treat to see.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

• Summer: The most popular time, offering long daylight hours. However, there is zero shade on this track. The Canterbury sun is fierce, so high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and at least 2-3 litres of water are non-negotiable.
• Autumn: Perhaps the best time to visit. The air is crisp, the light is golden, and the temperatures are much more comfortable for a 20km walk.
• Winter: The landscape is transformed into a white wonderland. You’ll need experience in snow travel, and the river crossings will be bone-chillingly cold. Always check the avalanche forecast if there has been heavy snow.
• Spring: Expect higher river levels due to snowmelt. The wildflowers in the tussock can be beautiful, but the weather is at its most temperamental.

• Start Early: With a 7-hour return time, you want to be on the trail by 9:00 AM at the latest to ensure you aren't rushing back in the dark.
• Mountain Bikers: This is a shared-use track. Keep an ear out for bikers coming down the hills and step aside to let them pass.
• Clothing: The "Nor'west" wind can howl through these valleys. Even on a warm day, pack a windproof jacket and a thermal layer. Weather can change in minutes in the sub-alpine zone.
• Dogs: While dogs are welcome, please keep them under control to protect the ground-nesting birds mentioned above.

Local & Regional Context

The Hakatere Conservation Park holds deep significance. For Māori, this area was part of the Ara Tawhito (ancient trails) used by Ngāi Tahu to travel between the east coast and the pounamu (greenstone) resources of the West Coast. It was a place of mahinga kai (food gathering), where birds and eels were harvested.

In more recent colonial history, the area became the backbone of Canterbury’s pastoral industry. The Potts River Track follows routes used by early high-country musterers. The ruggedness of the terrain today gives you a profound respect for the people who worked this land on horseback in decades past.

Today, the area is a focal point for conservation. Efforts are ongoing to protect the unique braided river ecosystems and the native lizards that live among the rocks. When you walk here, you are walking through a landscape that has been shaped by ice, wind, and history.

After the Walk

After 20 kilometres in the legs, you’re going to be hungry. Head back towards Mount Somers for some well-earned hospitality:

• The Staveley Store: Located just a short detour from the main road, this is an iconic local haunt. Their pies are legendary, and the coffee is excellent. It’s the perfect place to sit outside and recount the day's adventure.
• Mount Somers Tavern: If you’re after a more substantial "pub feed," the tavern offers classic Kiwi hospitality and a warm fireplace in the winter. It’s a great spot to meet locals and other trampers.

The Potts River Track to Mystery Lake is more than just a walk; it’s an immersion into the soul of the South Island high country. It’s rugged, it’s long, and it might get your feet wet—but the view of that serene blue tarn tucked against the mountains makes every step worth it.