Backpack MacPherson Creek to Lake Barra

If you’re ready for an advanced challenge to suit any adventurous spirit and have the skills to navigate complicated terrain then the narrow MacPherson Creek drainage on the fringes of Mount Aspiring National Park may grab your interest. Diving in from the MacPherson Creek bridge on the Haast Road just a few kilometres west of Pleasant Flat, bush climbing and crawling dominates the first half of this approach to the rugged and seriously remote Lake Barra.

Despite being only a few kilometres from a major road, this entire river valley sees very little visitation as it is completely untracked and difficult to travel through. A bush spur on the true left of the river leads you to the tussock slopes beneath MacPherson Knob via an intermittent deer trail. Once above bushline sidle beneath MacPherson Knob across very steep snowgrass and rocky outcrops or opt for climbing up and over the mountain. Once on the other side, the basin of Lake Barra beneath Mount Campbell is clearly visible. Continue sidling along snowgrass slopes, rock, and snow before climbing up to reach the rim of Lake Barra.

Camp here for an incredible view over the lake and valley or descend to the lake. Routes to the summit of West Peak and Mount Campbell are easily accessed from this location. Return via the same route to the Haast Road or through trial and error discover a steep bush spur and chamois trail that leads down to the river valley below. Either route is difficult so prepare for a long and challenging descent.