Ben Lomond Track

Rising dramatically behind Queenstown, the Ben Lomond Track is the town’s definitive summit hike, rewarding those who make the climb with a jaw-dropping 360° panorama of Lake Wakatipu, the jagged Remarkables, and the distant Southern Alps. This challenging but achievable trail starts from the top of the Skyline Gondola, cutting through beech forest before emerging onto a steep, exposed ridgeline that feels like a true alpine adventure. It’s a rite of passage for active visitors wanting to earn those iconic views.

Highlights & What to See

• Summit Views: The 360° panorama from the 1741m summit is simply breathtaking — Lake Wakatipu, The Remarkables, Cecil Peak, and Queenstown laid out below like a model village.
• Skyline Gondola start: The track begins at the Skyline Gondola top station, making it easy to combine with a gondola ride or luge experience before or after your hike.
• Alpine Ridge Walk: The final section above the treeline is a narrow, exposed ridge with steep drops — exhilarating and photogenic, but not for those with a fear of heights.
• Seasonal Wildflowers: In summer, the lower slopes are dotted with native alpine flowers, and you might spot kea (mountain parrots) near the summit.
• Lake Wakatipu vistas: Throughout the climb, you’ll get ever-expanding views of the lake and its deep blue waters.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow a full half-day: 3–4 hours up and 2–3 hours down, plus time at the top to soak in the views. Start early (before 9am) to avoid afternoon heat and crowds, and to catch the best light for photos. If you’re fit and acclimatised, you can do it in under 5 hours round trip, but most people take 6 hours including breaks. Combine with a gondola ride down for a slightly easier finish.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Skyline Gondola — Ride up or down for a different perspective, and enjoy the luge, restaurant, and stargazing at the top.
• Lake Wakatipu — After your hike, cool off with a stroll along the lakefront or a cruise to Walter Peak High Country Farm.
• The Remarkables — For another world-class hike or ski adventure, head to this iconic mountain range just 30 minutes from town.
• Shotover River — Get your adrenaline fix with jet boat rides or canyon swinging in the Shotover River canyon.

Please check official sources for current details.