Copland Track & Welcome Flat Hut

Today we’re heading to the West Coast and one of its most popular tramps — an historic track best known for its natural hot pools. This episode explores the Copland Track and Welcome Flat Hut.Developed in the early 20th century as a route across the Southern Alps, the Copland Track is now usually walked as a return trip from the West Coast road end to Welcome Flat Hut. The 18km track follows rivers, crosses swing bridges, and winds through lush rainforest before emerging beneath the towering Sierra Range.I walked the track in early spring, navigating Rough Creek, sandflies, glacial rivers, and long stretches of well-graded track before spending two nights at Welcome Flat Hut. The 31-bunk hut is famous for its nearby hot pools, fed by natural spring water, and for the unusual Sierra Room.In this episode I give an overview of the track and hut, describe my experience of it, and share practical advice for those thinking of walking it.https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/west-coast/places/westland-tai-poutini-national-park/things-to-do/tracks/copland-track-to-welcome-flat-hut/