Loading...
Mount Robert Carpark, St Arnaud
10.8 km
3 hours
360 metres
If you are looking for a walk that perfectly encapsulates the rugged beauty of the Nelson Lakes National Park without requiring a multi-day commitment, the Whiskey Falls Track is calling your name. Tucked away near the alpine village of St Arnaud, this 10.8km return journey offers a little bit of everything: lush native forest, sweeping lake views, a touch of local intrigue, and a spectacular 40-metre waterfall as the grand finale.
Whether you are a local looking for a weekend leg-stretcher or a visitor exploring the top of the South Island, this track provides a moderate yet immensely rewarding experience. It is a walk that invites you to slow down, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and immerse yourself in the ngahere (forest).
Your journey begins at the Mount Robert Road carpark, a hub for some of the most iconic tramps in the region. However, while many hikers head upwards toward the exposed ridgelines of the Robert Ridge, the Whiskey Falls Track takes a more sheltered, intimate route. As a section of the longer Lakeside Track, this path winds its way along the western edge of Lake Rotoiti, keeping you mostly under the protective canopy of the forest.
The first thing you’ll notice as you step onto the trail is the immediate shift in atmosphere. The air cools, and the scent of damp earth and beech resin fills your lungs. The track is well-formed but retains a natural, earthy feel. You’ll find yourself wandering through a vibrant tapestry of native New Zealand bush, dominated by mānuka, kānuka, and towering red and silver beech trees. The canopy above provides a beautiful dappled light, making the forest floor glow with various shades of green.
As you progress, the trail gently undulates. It’s not a flat walk by any means, with a total elevation gain of about 360 metres, but the climbs are rarely punishing. Instead, they provide a satisfying steady rhythm. One of the unique charms of this track is how it interacts with the landscape. You will cross several shingle fans—areas where rock and debris have washed down from the slopes of Mount Robert over centuries. These sections offer a change in terrain and require a bit of mindful footwork.
There is also an unbridged stream crossing to navigate. During the drier months, this is usually a simple hop across the rocks, but after heavy rainfall, it can become a bit more of an adventure. Expect some muddy patches along the way, especially in the shaded gullies where the sun struggles to reach the ground. It’s all part of the authentic Kiwi tramping experience!
Parking is available at the Mount Robert Road carpark. This carpark is located approximately 2.8 km along Mount Robert Road, which branches off State Highway 63 west of St Arnaud. Toilet facilities are available at the Mount Robert Carpark further up the road.
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
Petroica australis
Friendly forest bird that often approaches walkers. Males are dark grey-black; females are paler.
Best time: Year-round
Rhipidura fuliginosa
Small insectivorous bird with distinctive fan-shaped tail. Friendly and curious, often following walkers through the bush.
Best time: Year-round
Refuel after your hike at these nearby spots
2.8km away
A welcoming lodge offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a focus on fresh, locally sourced produce, plus a full bar. It's a great spot for a post-hike meal in a cosy atmosphere.
Be the first to share a photo of this trail
Recent reports from hikers
No condition reports yet.
Be the first to report the current conditions!
See what other hikers are saying
--
No reviews yet
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!
Out and back
Throughout the walk, the shimmering blue of Lake Rotoiti teases you through the breaks in the trees. These picturesque vistas are the perfect excuse to pause, take a sip of water, and admire the reflection of the surrounding mountains on the pristine water.
The undeniable star of the show is, of course, Whiskey Falls. As you draw closer, the gentle rustle of the wind in the beech trees is replaced by a low, rhythmic rumble. A short, slightly steeper uphill detour leads you directly to the base of the falls. Standing at the bottom, looking up at the nearly 40-metre torrent of water plummeting down the rock face, is a humbling experience.
The falls create a constant, delicate mist, which has allowed a lush micro-ecosystem to thrive. The rock walls are draped in thick, vibrant emerald moss and delicate ferns, creating a scene that looks like it belongs in a fantasy film. It’s a fantastic spot for photography, though you’ll want to protect your lens from the spray!
Beyond the natural beauty, there is a layer of historical intrigue here. The falls get their name from a local legend involving an illegal whiskey distillery that was purportedly hidden in the dense bush near the cascade during the early colonial days. While you won't find any copper stills today, knowing the history adds a bit of "spirited" character to the location.
Another highlight is the sheer variety of the forest. Because the track follows the lake edge, you get to see the transition from the drier kānuka stands to the deep, dark, moss-covered beech forest. The small rapids and mini-cascades you encounter before reaching the main falls are like "appetisers" for the main event.
To find the trailhead, drive into St Arnaud and head west on State Highway 63. Turn off onto Mount Robert Road and follow it for approximately 2.8 km. You will reach a designated carpark area on the left side of the road.
Note that there are toilet facilities available further up the road at the main Mount Robert Carpark, so it’s worth a quick stop there before you lace up your boots. The road is gravel but generally well-maintained, though you should always drive to the conditions, especially in winter when ice can be an issue.
The Nelson Lakes National Park is a haven for native birdlife, and the Whiskey Falls Track is a great place to hear—and see—them in action. Because the forest is so healthy, the "bird song volume" is often quite high.
Tip: For the best birdwatching, try to start your walk in the early morning when the forest is waking up and the birds are most active.
The Whiskey Falls Track is truly a year-round destination, with each season offering a different flavour:
What to pack: 1. Insect Repellent: This is non-negotiable. The West Coast and Nelson Lakes are famous for their sandflies (namu), and they are particularly fond of the damp area around the waterfall. 2. Sturdy Footwear: While not a technical climb, the shingle fans and muddy patches make hiking boots or high-traction trail shoes a must. 3. Layers: Even in summer, the forest can be cool. Bring a light waterproof jacket and a warm layer. 4. Water and Snacks: There are no water taps on the trail, so carry at least 1.5 litres of water.
Family and Dog Policy: This is a kid-friendly walk for children with a bit of walking experience, as the 3-hour return time is manageable for most. However, please note that dogs are not permitted on this track to protect the vulnerable native wildlife.
Nelson Lakes National Park holds a special place in New Zealand's heart. For the local Māori iwi (tribes), particularly Ngāti Apa ki te Rā Tō, the area is rich in history and spiritual significance. The lakes, Rotoiti and Rotoroa, were created by the great explorer Rakaihautu, who used his ko (digging stick) to hollow out the basins.
The park is also a focal point for conservation. The Rotoiti Nature Recovery Project works tirelessly to control pests like stoats and wasps, which is why the birdlife here is so much more prolific than in many other parts of the country. By walking this trail, you are stepping into one of New Zealand's most successful "mainland island" conservation areas.
After three hours on the trail, you’ll likely have worked up an appetite. St Arnaud might be small, but it punches above its weight for post-hike refueling.
The Whiskey Falls Track is more than just a walk to a waterfall; it’s a journey through the soul of the Nelson Lakes. It’s accessible, beautiful, and just challenging enough to make that post-hike meal taste even better.
Acanthisitta chloris
The tītitiponamu is New Zealand's smallest native bird, often seen flitting quickly up tree trunks and branches.
Best time: Year-round
Anthornis melanura
Endemic songbird with bell-like calls. Males are olive-green with a purple head sheen; females are browner with a narrow white-yellow stripe across the cheek.
Best time: Year-round
Best time: Year-round
Zosterops lateralis
Small bird with distinctive white eye-ring. Commonly seen in flocks, feeding on insects, fruit, and nectar.
Best time: Year-round
2.8km away
Conveniently located in St Arnaud village, this store offers takeaway food, a cafe menu, and excellent coffee, perfect for a quick bite or supplies before or after your hike.