Ready to hit the trail? This article’s your one-stop shop for everything you need to know about tackling the Routeburn Track. From jaw-dropping views to the nitty-gritty on parking and facilities, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get into it!
| Location: | Fiordland and Mount Aspiring National Parks, South Island |
| Difficulty Level: | Moderate to Hard |
| Duration: | 2-4 days |
| Walking Distance: | 32 km (one way) |
| Walk Type: | Point-to-point |
| Elevation Gain: | 1,300 metres |
| Suitable for: | Experienced hikers, adventure seekers |
| Terrain and Track Surface: | Expect gravel paths, boardwalks, and some rocky bits. It’s got some steep climbs, especially around Harris Saddle. |
| Toilets: | Available at huts and major campsites |
| Dogs: | No dogs allowed on the Routeburn Track, sorry Fido! |
The Routeburn Track is all about those killer views. Think lush forests, stunning alpine meadows, and towering mountain peaks. Highlights include the epic Harris Saddle, Routeburn Falls, and the gorgeous Lake Mackenzie.
This track’s got some cool history. Maori used it for ages to collect greenstone. European settlers then developed it for tourism in the late 1800s. Now, it’s part of a World Heritage area.
You can park at both ends of the track—Routeburn Shelter near Glenorchy and The Divide near Milford Sound. Heads up: these spots can fill up fast during peak times.
By Car:
By Public Transport:
Shuttle services run from Queenstown and Te Anau to both ends of the track. Check local providers for times and prices.
Expect gravel paths, boardwalks, and some rocky bits. It’s got some steep climbs, especially around Harris Saddle.
Late October to April is prime time. Outside these months, snow and bad weather can make things tricky.
No dogs allowed on the Routeburn Track, sorry Fido!
This track isn’t suitable for strollers or wheelchairs due to the rough terrain.
It’s a tough hike, but older kids with some hiking experience might love it. Maybe stick to shorter sections for younger ones.
The DOC manages several huts and campsites along the track. You’ll need to book these, especially during the Great Walks season (October to April).
Start from Routeburn Shelter, wind through beech forests, and climb to Routeburn Falls Hut. Day two takes you over Harris Saddle with awesome alpine views before you descend to Lake Mackenzie Hut. The final stretch meanders through greenery to The Divide.
Nope, drones aren’t allowed.
Post-hike, grab a bite at Glenorchy Café or head to Te Anau for more options.
Get more info at the Queenstown iSite or the Te Anau iSite here.
Layer up! Bring a waterproof jacket, good hiking boots, and warm clothes for the chilly bits.
The track’s well-marked with clear signs and info boards.
Book huts and campsites on the DOC website. Fees apply, especially in the Great Walks season.
No bikes on this track, sorry.
Craving more hikes? Check out these nearby tracks:
A 60 km loop starting and ending in Te Anau, offering alpine views, forests, and limestone formations. It takes 3-4 days to complete.
Known as the “finest walk in the world,” this 53.5 km track takes 4 days, featuring valleys, rivers, and Milford Sound.
A loop that takes 4-5 days to complete, starting near Glenorchy. It includes forests, river valleys, and alpine views.
A 4-8 day trek from mountains to sea, following the Hollyford River through rainforests and waterfalls to the West Coast.
A 26 km return track near Glenorchy, perfect for a challenging day hike or overnight trip to the Earnslaw Glacier, featuring waterfalls and alpine meadows.
Want a guided experience? Check out these operators:
Need a place to crash? Here are some nearby options:
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the Routeburn Track:
Bookings for huts and campsites can be made through the Department of Conservation (DOC) website. It’s essential to book in advance, especially during the Great Walks season (October to April), as spots fill up quickly. Visit the DOC website for more details: DOC Bookings.
You’ll need sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing layers, a waterproof jacket, a hat and gloves, a good backpack, a sleeping bag (for huts), and a personal first aid kit. Don’t forget plenty of high-energy snacks, a reusable water bottle, and a map or GPS device.
Hiking the Routeburn Track in winter is not recommended unless you are an experienced alpine hiker with appropriate gear. Snow, avalanches, and severe weather conditions can make the track dangerous. Always check current conditions with DOC before planning a winter hike.
Yes, several operators offer guided tours on the Routeburn Track. These tours often include accommodation, meals, and transport. Companies like Ultimate Hikes, Trips & Tramps, and RealNZ provide guided experiences tailored to different preferences and fitness levels.
Yes, you can enjoy shorter day hikes on the Routeburn Track. Popular day hike options include the Routeburn Falls Hut from the Routeburn Shelter (about 16 km return) or a shorter walk to the first bridge or Flats Hut. These provide a taste of the track’s stunning scenery without committing to the full multi-day hike.
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