Routeburn Track
Southland
The Routeburn Track is a renowned 32 km tramping route located in New Zealand's South Island, crossing the Southern Alps between Mount Aspiring and Fiordland National Parks. Classified as one of New Zealand's Great Walks, it features three well-maintained huts-Routeburn Flats Hut, Routeburn Falls Hut, and Lake Mackenzie Hut-and an emergency shelter at Harris Saddle, the track's highest point. The trail traverses diverse ecosystems, with red and mountain beech forests on the drier eastern side contrasting with lush vegetation on the west. Hikers enjoy panoramic views from high ridges around Harris Saddle, including vistas towards the Tasman Sea and the Serpentine Range. The track is accessible from either the Queenstown side near Lake Wakatipu or the Divide near Milford Sound, allowing flexibility in direction and itinerary. Along the route, notable landmarks include the Bridal Veil waterfall, Eagle Bluff, Lake Harris, and Earland Falls. The track is suitable for multi-day trampers who can book hut or camping accommodations in advance during peak season, as well as day hikers who often explore sections like the Key Summit nature walk. Due to the distance between trailheads, transport logistics require planning, with options such as shuttle buses or car relocations. The Routeburn Track offers a blend of natural beauty, manageable challenge, and rich history, making it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
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Tip: Plan your visit during the drier months to enjoy clearer views and more stable weather. Book huts or camping spots well in advance during peak season to secure your accommodation. Consider starting from either end depending on your preference for climbing or descent. For day hikes, Key Summit offers a rewarding nature walk with panoramic views without the need for overnight stays. Arrange transport between trailheads ahead of time, as the trackheads are 340 km apart. Winter visitors can use the Falls Hut as a base for ski touring. Always carry appropriate gear and check weather conditions before setting out.
Interesting facts
- •The Routeburn Track overlaps two national parks: Mount Aspiring and Fiordland National Parks.
- •Harris Saddle, the track's highest point, offers 360-degree views and is a popular side trip spot to Conical Hill.
- •The track passes under Earland Falls, which is 174 meters high, with an alternative route available during heavy flow.
- •The trail features diverse forest types, with red and mountain beech dominating the drier eastern slopes.
- •The track is less rainy than nearby Milford Sound, resulting in distinct vegetation differences.
History
The Routeburn Track has a long history of use dating back to the 1880s, originally serving as a route for early settlers and miners.
Over time, it evolved into a recreational tramping track and was officially designated as one of New Zealand's Great Walks by the Department of Conservation.
Infrastructure improvements, including the establishment of huts and maintained trails, have made it accessible to a wide range of hikers.
The track's management reflects a balance between conservation and public enjoyment, preserving its natural and cultural heritage.
Place Guide
Routeburn Flats Hut
A well-equipped hut located early on the track, serving as a common first night stop for trampers. It provides shelter and basic facilities amidst beech forest surroundings.
Routeburn Falls Hut
Situated near the famous Routeburn Falls, this hut is favored by many trampers for its scenic location and as a strategic resting point before the climb to Harris Saddle. Camping is not permitted here.
Lake Mackenzie Hut
Located on the western side of the track, this hut is the main overnight stop for trampers coming from the Milford Sound direction. It is surrounded by alpine scenery and close to Lake Mackenzie.
Harris Shelter and Saddle
The highest point on the Routeburn Track at 1255 meters, featuring a shelter and access to panoramic side trips such as Conical Hill, which offers 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Key Summit
A popular side trip accessible from the western end of the track, Key Summit is a nature walk leading to an alpine viewpoint at 918 meters, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
