From the upper Mungo River, Hokitika Saddle can be approached directly up a steep gravel gut, but this is a poor route, exposed to stone fall.
A better option exists: from about the 1300m contour in the upper Mungo Valley, ascend scree to the south-east leading to a shelf at the 1640m contour (J34 664974 / BV19 564 358).
From Hokitika Saddle, Clarkes Pass is accessible via Mt Ambrose.
To descend Griffiths Stream to the east, follow the creek directly off the pass down to the Griffiths. This is easy in good snow conditions, but if snow is gone a bit of scrambling will be required at a rocky section at about the 1400m contour. Watch for stones. Alternatively, the ridge descending from Pt 1850m has also been used.
Routes
| Reference | Title | Grade | Length | Pro | Quality | Operations |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAIN DIVIDE : HOKITIKA SADDLE TO BROWNING PASS | ||||||
Peaks described in this section mainly include climbs approached from the Kokatahi Valley in the west, although most peaks on the Main Divide here have traditionally been approached from the east. |
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in association with the Canterbury Mountaineering Club