Hiking the Demon Trail | Hollyford Track Day 2 | Lake Alabaster to McKerrow Island Hut
A rugged and immersive section of the Hollyford Track deep in New Zealand’s rainforest wilderness.
This solo backpacking video follows the next stage of the Hollyford Track, along the Demon Trail, hiking from Lake Alabaster Hut to McKerrow Island Hut through dense temperate rainforest in Fiordland. (See the first stage here: • Solo Backpacking New Zealand’s Hollyford T... )
After crossing the swinging bridge over the Pike River, the trail becomes noticeably rougher and more remote, with rocky sections, fallen trees to climb over, and occasional detours around storm damage.
The route winds through lush forest filled with fern trees, moss-covered beech trees, waterfalls, and flowing streams. Along the way are several classic New Zealand backcountry crossings including swinging bridges and a traditional three-wire bridge. Through openings in the forest canopy, steep mountain peaks occasionally appear above the valley.
Filmed as an ASMR-style hiking experience, there is no talking or narration. The video focuses on the natural rhythm of the trail, with ambient nature sounds and subtle music creating an immersive backpacking experience.
The Hollyford Track runs through the remote Hollyford Valley in Fiordland National Park on New Zealand’s South Island. Unlike many alpine routes in the region, this trail follows a glacial valley at low elevation, passing through one of the country’s most pristine temperate rainforest ecosystems. Frequent rain, landslides, and storms often make sections of the track rough and dynamic, adding to the sense of wilderness and adventure.
If you enjoy remote rainforest hiking, rugged backcountry trails, and quiet immersive outdoor experiences, this section of the Hollyford Track offers a realistic look at one of New Zealand’s most beautiful and wild valleys.
0:00 Lake Alabaster Morning
2:31 Leaving Lake Alabaster Hut
4:08 Crossing Pike River Swinging Bridge
5:03 Beginning the Demon Trail
11:42 Crossing Three Wire bridge
12:31 Beach on Hollyford River/Whakatipu-kā-tuka
17:00 Crossing do McKerrow Island
19:36 Mckerrow Island Hut