Separation Point Trail

Separation Point Trail is a long hike located in Abel Tasman National Park. This trail travels near the coast to reach Separation Point. This is an out and back hike with 2 loops along the way. This hike is 11.1 miles long and gains 2,270 feet of elevation.

This hike starts from the Tōtaranui Education Center. There is a small parking area here. Begin hiking north on Coastal Track. You will be hiking near an inlet. After 0.4 miles, you will come to a junction and go right. Another 0.2 miles will bring you to a junction with Pukatea Track. Go right here to begin the Headlands Loop.

After 0.4 more miles, you will continue onto Headlands Track. You will now be hiking uphill and enjoying periodic ocean views. After 0.6 miles of uphill trekking, you will start heading down. Another 0.6 miles bring you to the end of this loop. Turn right to continue on the trail. Hike through a lush forest. 0.9 miles of hiking will bring you to the Anapai Bay campsite and a beautiful beach. Follow the trail back into the woods and continue hiking north.

After 1.6 miles, you will come to a sandy beach. Continue along the shore past the Mutton Cove Campsite. After 0.5 miles, the trail will head back into the forest. Another 0.2 miles will bring you to a junction. Go right here to head towards Separation Point. The trail is a bit rocky here and requires careful footing. About 0.3 miles will bring you to Separation Point. Here, you will have panoramic views of Golden Bay and Tasman Bay. It is also possible to see seals here. Retrace your steps back to the last junction and go right to complete the second loop of the trail. You will hike mostly uphill for 0.9 miles before reaching a junction. Stay left here. Another mile will bring you back to the Mutton Cove Campsite. Follow the trail, skipping the Headlands Loop, back to the trailhead.

Abel Tasman National Park is open for hiking year round. There are no associated fees to hike here. Dogs are not allowed on this trail.