Dusky Track

Dusky Track is a famed Fiordland National Park tramp linking Lake Hauroko to Lake Manapouri in one direction, typically completed in about 7–10 days. The route covers about 79.6 km (one-way) and is classed for advanced walkers—expect slow progress and a high level of exposure to hazards rather than a “normal hike” experience.

You’ll be moving through rugged, wet country: deep mud for long stretches, slippery moss-covered roots and rocks, and frequent river/stream crossings. After heavy rain, multiple sections are prone to flooding and can become impassable, so schedule buffers and a conservative approach to deciding whether to push on are part of the plan.

A defining feature is the presence of 21 three-wire suspension bridges (“walkwires”). These are often the only practical crossing option in higher water, and they add a technical element to the river-travel days even for experienced trampers.

Route navigation can be harder than it looks on paper. Treefalls/windfalls run through the route, and there are places where the track can be hard to find—so you need reliable navigation capability (map/compass or GPS) and should not assume visibility of the tread in bad conditions.

For pacing and logistics, huts provide the structure for multi-day travel. Backcountry huts along the route are used as the overnight base, and the route can be walked in either direction, depending on transport arrangements at the start and finish points.

There’s also an optional 2-day Supper Cove detour from the Loch Maree area, adding additional river travel and a separate round of hut time. Supper Cove is accessed via the same remote transport network as the main start/finish points, so the detour is best treated as part of the overall planning and equipment load.

Preparation matters on Dusky: bring wet-weather gear appropriate for extreme Fiordland conditions, and carry emergency capability suitable for a remote, flooded-route scenario. In practice, that means extra attention to waterproofing, navigation redundancy, and having a way to raise the alarm if you get stuck or separated.

More information: Wikipedia, Exploring New Zealand's Deserted Dusky Track, Dusky Track - The Hiking Life