Routeburn Track

Striding through alpine meadows and ancient beech forests, the Routeburn Track is one of New Zealand's Great Walks, a 32-kilometer (20-mile) journey that links Mount Aspiring National Park with Fiordland National Park. This world-renowned tramp delivers jaw-dropping scenery at every turn: hanging valleys, crystal-clear rivers, and panoramic views of the Southern Alps. It's a must-do for hikers seeking an immersive wilderness experience without the multi-week commitment of longer trails.

Highlights & What to See

• Key Summit: A side trip offering 360-degree views of the Humboldt Mountains and Lake Marian, with a boardwalk through alpine tarns and cushion plants.
• Harris Saddle (Tarahaka Whakatipu): The highest point of the track (1,255 m / 4,117 ft), with breathtaking vistas of the Hollyford Valley and the Darran Mountains.
• Lake Mackenzie: A stunning turquoise lake surrounded by steep cliffs and waterfalls, perfect for a refreshing dip on a warm day.
• Earland Falls: A 174-meter (571-foot) cascade that thunders down the mountainside, especially impressive after rain.
• Beech forests and alpine meadows: Walk through moss-draped silver beech and red beech forests, then emerge into open tussock and herb fields dotted with mountain daisies.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most hikers complete the Routeburn Track in 3 days/2 nights, walking 6–8 hours per day. This allows a comfortable pace with time to soak in the scenery and take side trips. For a faster option, fit walkers can do it in 2 days, but you'll miss some of the leisurely detours. If you only have a day, consider a day hike from The Divide (the southern end) to Key Summit and back (3–4 hours round trip). Book huts and campsites well in advance through the Department of Conservation, especially in peak season (October to April).

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Wanaka Town: A vibrant lakeside hub with excellent cafes, restaurants, and adventure activities; use it as your base before or after the track.
• Roys Peak: A challenging day hike near Wanaka offering iconic views of Lake Wanaka and Mount Aspiring.
• That Wanaka Tree: The famous lone willow tree in Lake Wanaka, a short walk from the town center and a perfect photo stop.
• Glenorchy: A scenic drive from Queenstown, gateway to the Routeburn Track's northern end, with its own stunning landscapes and the start of the Routeburn Road.
• Milford Sound: A full-day trip from Te Anau or Queenstown, featuring dramatic fiords and waterfalls; can be combined with a visit to the southern end of the track.

Please check official sources for current details.