Routeburn Track

The Routeburn Track is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, a 32-kilometer alpine traverse that cuts through Fiordland and Mount Aspiring National Parks. This world-renowned tramp delivers jaw-dropping scenery from day one: ancient beech forests, emerald tarns, sweeping glacial valleys, and the iconic Harris Saddle. It’s a bucket-list adventure that rewards with unimpeded views of the Southern Alps and the chance to spot kea, the mischievous alpine parrot. Whether you tackle it in three days or two, the Routeburn is a journey into pure, untamed New Zealand.

Highlights & What to See

• Key Summit: A side trip that offers panoramic views of the Humboldt Mountains and Lake Marian – often cited as one of the best viewpoints in the country.
• Harris Saddle (Tararua Saddle): The highest point of the track at 1,255 meters, where you can gaze across the Hollyford Valley to the Tasman Sea on a clear day.
• Lake Mackenzie: A stunning turquoise alpine lake surrounded by tussock and rock, perfect for a lunch stop or overnight at the hut.
• Routeburn Falls: A dramatic cascade that plunges down a rocky cliff, easily viewed from the Routeburn Falls Hut.
• Beech Forests & Mossy Glades: The lower sections are cloaked in red and silver beech, with ferns and mosses creating a fairy-tale atmosphere.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most walkers complete the Routeburn Track in 2–3 days. A common itinerary is to walk from the Routeburn Shelter to Routeburn Falls Hut (day one), then on to Lake Mackenzie Hut (day two), and finish at The Divide (day three). For a shorter experience, you can do a day hike from the Routeburn Shelter to Key Summit and back (around 3–4 hours). If you have three days, you can take your time, enjoy side trips, and soak in the alpine scenery without rushing.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Milford Sound: Accessible from The Divide end of the track, this fiord is a must-see with its waterfalls and dramatic cliffs.
• Queenstown: A vibrant adventure hub an hour’s drive from the Routeburn Shelter, offering bungee jumping, jet boating, and great dining.
• Glenorchy: A charming lakeside village at the head of Lake Wakatipu, with stunning views and the start of the Routeburn Track.
• Te Anau: The gateway to Fiordland National Park, with glowworm caves and the Kepler Track.
• Wanaka: A picturesque town on Lake Wanaka, with excellent hiking, skiing, and the famous That Wanaka Tree.

Please check official sources for current details.