This rough track winds up past the rapids of the Marian Creek through dense forest to Lake Marian. The serene lake is nestled in a bowl, surrounded by 1500 metre high sheer granite walls, scoured to the vertical by glaciers, the remnants of which cling tenaciously to the mountain tops and sprout myriad small waterfalls. Consolidated screes fan out at the bases, some devoid of vegetation cover, but most tinged green with tussock, ferns, and shrubs.
The water is a deep jade green and on calm days reflects the majestic surroundings. A rocky shore on the lake edge offers a choice of spots for lunch, while admiring the waterfalls, waterfowl and breathtaking mountain sculptures. Mount Crosscut, obviously named because it’s jagged peaks resemble the teeth of a crosscut saw, dominates the view.
The lake was named by surveyor E.H Wilmot after his cousin Marian Little. The Marian Valley is a perfect example of a hanging valley, the remaining legacy of a tributary glacier that met the main Hollyford Glacier.
TRACK INFORMATION
Lake Marian
Grade: Difficult Time: 3 ½ hours return
Maximum of 6 Guests | Spaces are limited as only one departure per month - $250.00 per person |
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