Complete 2 Wanaka famous peaks, Isthmus Peak and Roy’s Peak, within 24 hours wasn’t our initial plan. When we’re awake and ready to depart from Boundary Creek campsite, we found out that there’s a roadblock due to landslide.
Luckily the authorities act very fast in clearing the landslide problem and the road is able to access again in the early afternoon. We quickly head to Stewart Creek car park, the starting point of Isthmus Peak, once the road is reopened.
Isthmus Peak, often known as the Roy’s Peak alternative track as it receives much less traffic than Roy’s Peak. Hence, for travelers who doesn’t like crowded place or queue for photos, Isthmus Peak is the best choice.
The track is marked through farmland owned by Glen Dene Station. These tracks are annually closed (information form DOC) for fawning between 20 November and 20 December. Therefore, kindly respect the closure as well as stay on the marked track.
Isthmus Peak is 1,385 m (4,543 ft) above sea level, 16km return, which takes around 5-7hrs for the entire track. Many rated Isthmus Peak is an advanced grade (inconsistent terrain) and includes climbing different terrains. However, I personally find it a moderate hike, except for the super steep rock face at the beginning of the track which just lasts for around 5 minutes.
I did some research online and it stated that Isthmus Peak give you different views as you climb higher. Indeed, it is!
Isthmus Peak also gives you views of Lake Hawae, Lake Wanaka, Southern Alps & surrounding peaks. However, I didn’t get the chance to see Isthmus Peak’s best view as we went on a cloudy day. The higher we go, the foggy it is.
We didn’t stay long at the peak as the sky starts to turn dark. Overall, it was a nice and happy hike experience for me even though didn’t get the chance to see Isthmus Peak at its best.
Rating
Experience ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Fitness 💪💪💪💪
