Make your own way to Wanaka and check-in to your trip accommodation any time after 2:00pm. You should allow enough time to purchase any snacks you wish to bring for the next 6 days should you wish. There is a conveniently located supermarket in central Wanaka usually open until about 10:00pm daily and plenty of cafes and restaurants to try for tonight's dinner.

Meals:  Nil

This morning, head through to our office for an 8.30am meet up, where you will meet the guide and complete a full gear check as well as a review of the weather forecast. We then drive 45 minutes to the small village of Makarora. Here we board a helicopter and fly into the heart of Mount Aspiring National Park. A leisurely 2 hour walk brings us to the Top Forks Hut. Dropping overnight gear, the rest of the day is spent walking to Lake Diana, Lake Lucidus or if the group is strong - Lake Castilia, a high alpine lake surrounded by cliffs and hanging glaciers. The trail climbs gradually as it weaves through native beech forest until breaking out above tree line. The hiking gets rougher just before the lake with a short boulder scramble rewarded with a spectacular view of the valley and lake. Overnight will be at Top Forks Hut.

Meals:  L,D

After leaving Young Hut, we get above the tree-line and head into a stunning basin, before a steep, long climb where the legs and lungs will be feeling it. Today we reach the high point of the trip, Gillespie Pass at 1600 metres. This is a real accomplishment and you will be rewarded with one of the great views of the Southern Alps. The trail then descends down into the Siberia Valley and a lovely walk along the river flats before reaching our destination for the night, Siberia Hut.

Meals:  B,L,D

A short distance from the Siberia Hut, we depart the valley via a steep climb through native forest, heading to today's destination. Gaining 550 metres of elevation, we come across a small river crossing at Siberia Stream and then a final ascent through a snowgrass flat up to the lake. Surrounded by towing walls, Lake Crucible is a geographic marvel carved out by the glaciers themselves. Those that did not want to do this walk, could remain back at camp and simply relax for the day as we return to Siberia Hut for the night.

Meals:  B,L,D

Sadly, today is the last day of our Gillespie Pass adventure. After a final breakfast on at camp, the trail takes us high above the Siberia Gorge, with beautiful views back up the Valley, before winding down to the Wilkin River. Here we meet our jet boat for a thrilling ride back to the Makarora township, and our drive back through to Wanaka. Arrival back in Wanaka will be at approximately 5.00pm where you can head out for a celebratory dinner and drinks in Wanaka with plenty of options to try.

Meals:  B,L

Your trip ends on check out from your accommodation in Wanaka. Please contact us if you wish to extend your stay and need extra nights accommodation.

Meals:  Nil