Routeburn Track

Point to point

Highlights & Must-See Features

If you’re bringing a camera (and you absolutely should), these are the spots that will fill up your memory card:

• Harris Saddle (1,255m): The literal high point. The views of the Darran Mountains are spectacular. If you have the energy, the side trip up Conical Hill offers a 360-degree view that includes the distant surf of the Tasman Sea on the West Coast.
• Lake Harris: A deep, moody alpine lake that looks different in every light. Its dark waters framed by jagged peaks are a quintessential Routeburn image.
• Routeburn Falls: Located right near the Routeburn Falls Hut, these cascading waters provide a dramatic backdrop for a rest stop.
• Earland Falls: On the final day of the full trek, you’ll encounter this 174-metre-high waterfall. Standing at the base and feeling the spray on your face is a fantastic way to wake up the senses.
• Key Summit: Located near The Divide end of the track, this is a popular side walk. It offers a unique "alpine garden" and views where three valleys meet. It’s one of the best effort-to-reward ratios in the region.

Getting There

Because the Routeburn Track is a point-to-point trail, logistics require a bit of planning. The two trailheads are the Routeburn Shelter (near Glenorchy, about 1.5 hours from Queenstown) and The Divide (on the road to Milford Sound, about 1.5 hours from Te Anau).

• Driving: Free car parks are available at both ends. However, remember that the ends are about 325 kilometres apart by road!
• Transport Services: Most hikers find it easiest to book a dedicated shuttle. Services run from Queenstown, Glenorchy, and Te Anau to both ends of the track.
• Car Relocation: This is a very popular "pro-tip" for locals. You can pay a service to drive your car from your starting point to the finishing trailhead while you are hiking. It’s incredibly convenient to have your own vehicle (and a change of clothes!) waiting for you at the finish line.
• Security: Due to the remote nature of these car parks, we generally recommend against leaving valuables in your vehicle for multiple days. Using a shuttle or relocation service is often the safer bet.

Wildlife Spotting

The Routeburn is a haven for native New Zealand birdlife, thanks to extensive predator control efforts in the area. Keep your eyes peeled and your ears open for:

• Kea: These cheeky, highly intelligent alpine parrots are common around the higher elevations, particularly at the Harris Saddle and near the huts. They are famous for their "playful" antics—which usually involve trying to steal your lunch or pull the rubber seals off your boots. Admire them, but please don't feed them!
• South Island Robin (Toutouwai): These friendly little birds are very bold. If you stop for a rest in the forest, one might hop right up to your boots to see if you’ve kicked up any tasty bugs.
• Rifleman (Tītitipounamu): New Zealand’s smallest bird. They look like tiny green ping-pong balls flitting through the beech trees. Listen for their high-pitched "zip" sound.
• Mohua (Yellowhead): If you are lucky, you might spot these rare, bright-yellow birds in the canopy of the beech forests.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Routeburn Track is best tackled during Spring, Summer, and Autumn.

• The Great Walks Season (Late October to April): This is when the huts are fully staffed and facilities (like gas cookers) are provided. You must book well in advance during this time, as spaces disappear within minutes of bookings opening.
• Weather: This is an alpine environment. Even in the height of summer, the weather can turn from "sunblock and singlets" to "snow and gale-force winds" in less than an hour. Always carry a waterproof jacket and warm layers (merino or fleece).
• Water & Food: There is plenty of water along the track, but it is recommended to treat it or fill up at the huts. You must carry all your own food and pack out all your rubbish.
• A Note for Families and Pet Owners: While we love a good family outing, the Routeburn Track is generally not considered kid-friendly for young children due to the long distances, steep drop-offs, and unpredictable weather. Additionally, like all New Zealand National Parks, dogs are not permitted.

Local & Regional Context

The area you are walking through is part of Te Wāhipounamu, a UNESCO World Heritage Area. To the local Māori iwi (tribes), this area was a vital part of the pounamu (greenstone) trails. Long before European settlers "discovered" the pass, Māori were traversing these rugged mountains to transport precious stone from the West Coast to the East.

Geologically, the track is fascinating because it sits right on the boundary of two different types of rock. As you cross the saddle, you move from the harder, older rocks of Mount Aspiring National Park into the glacially-carved landscapes of Fiordland. It’s a literal walk through the geological history of the South Island.

After the Walk

Once you emerge at the finish line, weary-legged and smelling of the bush, you’ll be ready for a "civilised" meal.

• If you finish at the Glenorchy end: Head straight to Mrs Woolly’s General Store for one of their legendary "Full Monty" gelato cones or a gourmet pie. Alternatively, the Glenorchy Hotel offers a classic Kiwi pub atmosphere where you can grab a cold beer and a burger by the fire.
• If you finish at The Divide: You’ll likely be heading toward Te Anau. Stop in at Sandfly Cafe for a great coffee and a massive slice of cake, or grab a venison pie from the famous Miles Better Pies. You’ve earned every single calorie!

The Routeburn Track isn't just a hike; it’s a rite of passage. It’s a chance to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with a landscape that has remained largely unchanged for millennia. Pack your bags, check the weather, and get ready for the walk of a lifetime.