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All about the trail
The Routeburn Track is the second most popular ‘Great Walk’ hiking trail in Aotearoa after the Milford track and it really deserves its popularity. The track is typically walked from east to west, beginning a short drive from the small town Glenorchy and finishing on the highway between Te Anau and Milford Sound.
There's something for everyone on this trail. Beautiful forests, golden river flats, the famous Routeburn river with its stunning blue water, an alpine crossing, mossy cloud forest and a collection of stunning lakes along the way. All with an ever changing and impressive backdrop of the southern alps. There is also a decent amount of birdlife due to the extensive network of predator traps. If you're lucky you'll also come across some of Aotearoa's threatened bird species along the way such as the Kea and our smallest bird, the Rifleman.
Track condition
-Very good condition with easy hiking most of the track.
-Between Harris saddle and Lake Mackenzie the path does get a little rocky but is generally quite easy to walk
Optionals
-Walk up the Connical Hill side track for a great 360 degree view of the area
-Key Summit is another great side track to take for some excellent 360 degree views of the area
Getting there
The track is a one way track and so track transport needs to be arranged to and from the trail in advance. There are many shuttle companies operating to both ends of the trail and so you must find an option that suits your trip. Many people combine a trip to see Milford Sound at the end of their hike.
Trail start location: Routeburn Shelter
Trail finiah location: The Divide Shelter
Sleep
-Huts:
The huts are reasonably modern with great facilities. Flush toilets and cleaning equipment for dishes etc provided inside with wood burners for cold nights.
-Camping:
Only possible in the designated camping areas.
-Booking:
Bookings required for both huts and campsites.
-Back-country hut pass:
Cannot be used.
What To Take
As with the rest of the southern alps, the weather here is very unpredictable given its geographic location. Therefore even with a favourable forecast, plan for things to deteriorate just in case. Wet weather gear and warm layers are a.must all year round.
Summer | Example packing list
Spring + Autnum | Example packing list
Winter Hiking
Alpine gear required for the pass towards the end of may and onwards. Crampons and Ice axes need to be taken and check in at the visitor centre to determine any additional precautions.
Website And Other Links
Department of conservation website | Fiordland National Park Weather