Exploring the Mount Crichton Loop Track
Located approximately 15 km from Queenstown, the Mount Crichton Loop Track offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical interest. This track provides a unique opportunity to explore both a scenic bush and river gorge walk alongside remnants of gold mining history. On the western side, you can discover historical mining sites, while the eastern side presents an outlook and access to Lake Dispute. The entire loop can be completed in about two hours, making it an ideal short adventure.
Scenic Beauty and Historical Highlights
The track starts from a car park off Glenorchy-Queenstown Road and heads north at the base of Mount Crichton, 1,870 metres high. The track follows the oddly named "12 Mile Creek or Few Creek" for about 2 km, through rainforest, then encounters the remnants of gold mining activities from the 1800s. The western side of the loop includes a deforested scooped-out gully formed by water blasting, along with piles of tailings and an interesting narrow tail race tunnel.
One of the track's main attractions is the Sam Summers Hut, nestled in a beech forest near a picturesque waterfall, just beyond the gold workings. Built in the 1930s by prospector Sam Summers, the stone hut was used during his days of gold mining. It still stands today, complete with a corrugated iron roof and original fireplace. The hut offers a glimpse into a simpler yet more challenging past, providing an authentic historical experience.
Continuing around the loop takes you to the optional walk to Lake Dispute or back to the car park.
How to get there
To reach the Mount Crichton Loop Track, head out of Queenstown towards Glenorchy on the Glenorchy-Queenstown Road for about 15 km. The track's entrance is well-signposted, making it easy to find. Note that the car park is on the south side of he road and there is a short section from the car park to the road. Cross the road to enter the start of the track.
Other relatively short walks around Queenstown include Bobs Cove, Moke Lake Loop and Queenstown Hill.
