Kepler Track

The Kepler Track is one of New Zealand's Great Walks, a 60-kilometer loop through Fiordland's dramatic landscapes. Starting and ending near Te Anau, it traverses alpine ridges, ancient beech forests, and the shores of Lake Manapouri and Lake Te Anau. This world-class tramp offers a true wilderness experience with well-maintained huts and tracks.

Highlights & What to See

• Luxmore Summit: The highest point on the track at 1,472 meters, offering panoramic views of Lake Te Anau, Lake Manapouri, and the surrounding mountains.
• Iris Burn Hut: A popular overnight stop set in a valley with a waterfall nearby; the surrounding forest is rich with birdlife.
• Shallow Bay: A serene spot on Lake Manapouri with a sandy beach and views of the Kepler Mountains.
• Kepler Track Lookout: A short side trip from the trail provides stunning views over the Waiau River and Te Anau Basin.
• Te Anau: The gateway town to the track, offering accommodations, gear rentals, and the famous glowworm caves.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most walkers complete the full loop in 3-4 days, with nights spent at the Luxmore, Iris Burn, and Moturau huts. A popular itinerary is a 4-day, 3-night circuit: day 1 from the Control Gates to Luxmore Hut (5-6 hours), day 2 to Iris Burn Hut (6-7 hours), day 3 to Moturau Hut (6-7 hours), and day 4 back to the start (5-6 hours). For those short on time, a day hike from the Rainbow Reach car park to Moturau Hut and back (about 4-5 hours) provides a taste of the track.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Milford Sound: A stunning fjord with waterfalls and wildlife, about 2 hours from Te Anau.
• Doubtful Sound: A larger, quieter fjord accessible via a cruise from Manapouri.
• Fiordland National Park: Explore other walks like the Routeburn Track or the Hollyford Track.
• Te Anau Glowworm Caves: A unique underground experience with thousands of glowworms.
• Lake Manapouri: Perfect for kayaking, fishing, or scenic cruises.

Please check official sources for current details.