Kepler Track

The Kepler Track is one of New Zealand's Great Walks, a showcase of Fiordland's dramatic landscapes. This 60-kilometer circuit near Te Anau takes you from lush beech forests and sparkling lakeshores to alpine ridges with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and fiords. It's a challenging but rewarding multi-day hike that offers a true wilderness experience.

Highlights & What to See

• Luxmore Hut and Mount Luxmore – The climb to Luxmore Hut offers sweeping views of Lake Te Anau and the surrounding mountains; the summit of Mount Luxmore (1,472m) is a must-do side trip.
• Iris Burn Hut and Waterfall – Descend into the Iris Burn valley, where a short detour leads to a stunning waterfall cascading into a deep pool.
• Kepler Track's Alpine Section – The exposed ridgeline between Luxmore and Iris Burn huts offers jaw-dropping vistas of the fiords and peaks – a highlight of the entire trail.
• Lake Te Anau Shoreline – The track follows the lake's edge through ancient beech forest, with opportunities to spot native birds like the tui and fantail.
• Te Anau – The gateway town to Fiordland National Park, where you can prepare for the track and relax after your hike.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most walkers complete the Kepler Track in 3 days and 2 nights, staying at the Department of Conservation huts. A common itinerary is Day 1: Te Anau to Luxmore Hut (5-6 hours), Day 2: Luxmore Hut to Iris Burn Hut (6-7 hours over the alpine ridge), Day 3: Iris Burn Hut back to Te Anau (5-6 hours). Allow an extra day if you want to explore side trips or take a slower pace. The track is best walked between late October and April, when the weather is more stable.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Milford Sound – A stunning fiord with dramatic waterfalls and boat cruises, about 2 hours from Te Anau.
• Doubtful Sound – A more remote and less visited fiord, accessible via a boat and bus combination from Manapouri.
• Routeburn Track – Another Great Walk that can be combined with the Kepler for a longer adventure.
• Te Anau Glowworm Caves – A unique underground experience with glowworms, just a short boat ride from Te Anau.
• Fiordland National Park – Explore other short walks and scenic drives in this vast wilderness area.

Please check official sources for current details.