Welcome Flat Hut Hike (The Best Overnight Hike In The South Island?)

The Welcome Flat Hut hike, also known as the Copland track, is a 2-day trek that takes you through the scenic Westland Tai Poutini National Park. It follows the Copland River and winds down to the natural hot pools at Welcome Flat. The entire trip should take you 7 hours each way. 

Although it’s graded as a intermediate ‘Great Walk’ level track, it does still have its challenges, including large swing bridges, narrow rocky sections and the 18km distance is a long way to walk in a day regardless.

But, of course, the hot springs at the end make it all worth it!

In this post, I’ll provide a detailed guide to make your tramping enjoyable and successful. 

As always, for up to date track information, weather and closures, check the DOC website here

How to Get There

The track starts on State Highway 6, 26 km south of Fox Glacier. There is a car park and a signpost at the start of the track. The carpark is down a short metal road from the state highway. This is in good condition and suitable for all vehicles (we were in a campervan and there were no problems!)

You can drive or take a bus to the trailhead. If you choose the latter, don’t forget to book in advance.

Route Options

For all intents and purposes the Copland valley and track is a one way in, and one way out.

Copland Track to Welcome Flat Hut (via Architects Creek Hut)

This is the standard trek and results in a 2 day (one night) trip. You’ll follow the Copland River valley, cross several swing bridges, and pass through beech forests, riverbeds, and alpine meadows. It takes 7 hours one way. 

Most people will stop for lunch or skip Architects Creek Hut entirely. It is however a good option in busy months if you cant get a booking at Welcome Flat Hut.

Welcome Flat Hut on to Douglas Rock Hut

This not-so-popular route adds an extra 2 days to your hike. The Copland track continues and climbs up to the Douglas Rock Hut. It’s steep and comprises even more exposed sections. You’ll take about 5 hours to get to the hut, and another 5 to get back to the Welcome Flat Hut the next day the way you came. 

This track is rugged un unmaintained – a start contrast to the welcome flat hut section. We walked the first 1 or 2km of it too see more of the flat which i’d recommend, even if you don’t plan to go all the way to douglas rock hut.

When Is The Best Time To Hike To Welcome Flat Hut

This hike is pretty well good to do all year round subject to a good weather window

But its the west coast after all.. so conditions can change in a heartbeat. The track can be muddy and slippery after rain, and there can be snow and ice on the higher sections in winter months.

In summer you’ll be able to enjoy more of the coasts infamous sandflies down by the river sections, and the Upper Copeland Valley Track carpark is a SHOCKER – so bring mossie repellant!

A Quick Guide To Hike to the Welcome Flat Hut

Start of the Track

We started our trip at the large Copland Valley Track car park, just 26 km south of Fox Glacier. After a sandfly blitzkrieg to any and all exposed skin, we hastily got walking

You’ll start will a river crossing through the Karangarua River – so maybe don’t don your trail shoes right away. It was suprisingly high and fast flowing when we were there but found that by heading up river a hundred metres or so there were better crossing points.

From there its a gentle, short ascent through the bush up the Copland River to the first swing bridge. The track is wide and only a gentle incline.

Carpark to Achitech Creek Bridge + Hut

There were several side streams and waterfalls along the way. Eventually you’ll make it down onto the river itself.

This part of the track is stunning. You’ll be treated to a milky blue glacial river that contrasts against the white rock and lush green bush. The track is a little less defined and there will be a bit of rock scrambling before diverting back into the bush again.

What follows is another swing bridge over Arch Creek. A couple of steps from the bridge, you’ll encounter the unserviced Architect Creek hut.

This is a popular spot to overnight the first night if you’re looking to extend your trip. It operates on a first-come first serve basis, so no booking is required. 

We took a breather here and then proceeded up to the terrace. This section has a better view of the Copland Valley and the Sierra Range. You’ll then descend back to the river level and cross another swing bridge over the Copland River. When you reach the other side, follow the markers until you land on a grassy flat.

On To Welcome Flat Hut

After about an hour of climbing, I reached the apex of the trail and then descend to Welcome Flat Hut. 

Once settled, I made my way to the main attraction–the hot pools–which are a short walk from the hut. I took my time and soaked in for as long as possible. 

It’s a fun and relaxing way to reward yourself for your efforts. 

How Much Does The Welcome Flat Hut Cost?

The Glaciers area has 3 overnighting options: The main hut, the campsite, and the Sierra Room. Here’s what you can expect to pay for each of these. 

Welcome Flat Hut

• Adult (18+ years): $30 
• Children (5–17 years): $15 per night
• Infant (0–4 years): free

Welcome Flat Campsite and Bivvy

A short walk from the hut areeight leveled tent sites in a well-manicured grass clearing. There’s also the option of pitching a tent (or hang a fly) under the massive rock bivvy right adjacent to the hot pools and about 100m from the hut.

When camping, you’ll use the hut’s facilities.

• Adult (18+): $15 
• Children (5–17 years): $7.50 

The Sierra Room (sole occupancy) 

This room is found within the hut on the 2nd floor. Its totaly private from the rest of the hut and has its own entrance! You’ll book the entire room under one reservation which can sleep up to 4 people.

• $132 per night (sleeps 1–4 persons)

What To Bring?

Apart from the usual, New Zealand Hut Hiking gear, here are a couple of extra considerations

• Mosquito Repellant:
  If you havn’t been to the West Coast, then you havn’t truly experienced sandflies. They are Piranhas of the sky and can destroy you in seconds – so be prepared!
  
• Togs and Towel!
  Self explanatory – You’re probably doing this hike for the hot springs right??
  
• Wet Weather Gear
  The West Coast likes to rain – it’s one of the wettest places in the world, with some areas receiving over 10,000mm annually. Even if the forcast is good, you should take your full wet weather gear and enough spare clothes to change into if you get soaked.

Bring a tent, sleeping mat, and sleeping bag if you want to camp outside the hut.

Frequently Asked Questions

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