Ben Lomond Track

On the eastern flanks of Hanmer Forest Park, the Ben Lomond Track is a steep, rewarding day-hike that feels like a true alpine escape without the crowds of more famous New Zealand tramps. The trail climbs through mountain beech forest before breaking out above the bushline to tussock and rock, culminating in panoramic views of the Seaward Kaikōura Range, the Hanmer Basin, and on a clear day, the Pacific Ocean. This is a classic Canterbury backcountry experience – raw, exposed, and utterly spectacular.

Highlights & What to See

• Summit Ridge – The final scramble along the narrow ridge to the 1,406 m summit is exhilarating, with sheer drops on either side and 360-degree views that make every step worth it.
• Alpine Flora – In summer, the upper slopes are dotted with mountain daisies, edelweiss, and other hardy alpine plants; keep an eye out for kea, the mischievous mountain parrot.
• Hanmer Forest Park – The lower section winds through tall red beech and silver beech, with birdlife including tomtits, fantails, and bellbirds.
• Sunrise or Sunset Ascent – For photographers, the golden light at dawn or dusk paints the mountains in warm hues and often means fewer hikers on the trail.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow a full day for the return hike: 5–7 hours for experienced hikers, 7–9 hours if you take a leisurely pace with plenty of photo stops. Start early to avoid afternoon wind on the exposed summit ridge. The track is steep and unrelenting in sections, so pack plenty of water, layers, and a windproof jacket – conditions change fast above the treeline.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hanmer Springs – Soak your tired legs in the famous thermal pools after the hike, just a 10-minute drive from the trailhead.
• Conical Hill Walk – A shorter, easier loop in Hanmer Forest Park that offers lovely views over the village and is perfect for a pre- or post-hike warm-up.
• Hanmer Heritage Forest – Explore the network of mountain bike trails and walking paths through ancient red beech, ideal for a relaxed afternoon.
• Waiau River – Go jet boating, kayaking, or simply enjoy a riverside picnic; the Waiau is a stunning braided river just south of Hanmer.
• Molesworth Station – New Zealand’s largest farm, open to visitors in summer via guided 4WD tours; a remote high-country experience unlike any other.

Please check official sources for current details.