Loading...
Queenstown
15 km
5 hours
1156 metres
If you’re looking for a trail that captures the true essence of Queenstown’s rugged backcountry, away from the bustling crowds of the waterfront, The Moonlight Track is calling your name. This isn’t just a hike; it’s a journey through time, a physical challenge, and a visual feast all rolled into one. Spanning 15 kilometres and climbing over 1,100 metres, it’s a demanding day out, but the rewards are as vast as the Southern Alps themselves.
Whether you’re a local looking to escape the "tourist bubble" or a visitor wanting to see the wild side of Central Otago, this historic gold-mining route offers a raw, authentic slice of New Zealand. From the dense native bush of Arthurs Point to the high-alpine tussocks of the Ben Lomond range, every step tells a story of geological wonder and human perseverance.
The adventure begins near Arthurs Point, where the trail wastes no time in getting your heart rate up. The initial climb takes you through lush native bush, where the air is cool and the scent of damp earth and moss fills your lungs. As you ascend, the canopy begins to thin, revealing breathtaking glimpses of the Shotover River snaking its way through the canyon far below.
As you transition out of the forest, the landscape shifts dramatically. You’ll find yourself on a narrow ribbon of singletrack carved into the steep flanks of Ben Lomond Peak. This is where the hike earns its "hard" rating. The terrain becomes a sea of golden tussock, and the path can feel quite exposed. There are sections with steep drop-offs that will certainly get your adrenaline pumping, so sure footing is a must.
The middle section of the walk is a high-altitude traverse that makes you feel incredibly small against the scale of the mountains. You’ll hike across active farmland—don’t be surprised if a few curious sheep or cattle watch your progress. Remember to leave gates as you find them! Eventually, the trail crests at the Ben Lomond Saddle, the highest point of the journey. From here, the world opens up in a 360-degree panorama of the Wakatipu Basin and the jagged peaks of the Southern Alps. The descent toward Moke Lake offers a change of pace, winding down through historic terraces before reaching the serene, mirror-like waters of the lake.
Because this is a point-to-point trail, it feels like a genuine expedition. You aren’t just walking in a circle; you’re crossing a mountain range. It’s also worth noting that while this is a challenging trek for humans, your four-legged friends are welcome to join you, as the track is dog-friendly. However, due to the distance, elevation, and steep sections, it’s generally not recommended for young children.
Parking is available at the end of the sealed section of Moonlight Track from Arthurs Point. Alternatively, hikers can start from the Skyline Gondola base on Brecon Street in Queenstown (accessing the track via the Tiki Trail), or from the Moke Lake Reserve.
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
Nestor notabilis
Intelligent alpine parrot endemic to the South Island. Known for curiosity and problem-solving abilities.
Best time: Year-round
Prosthemadera novaeseelandiae
Endemic New Zealand honeyeater with distinctive white throat tuft and iridescent plumage. Known for its complex and beautiful song.
Best time: Year-round
Refuel after your hike at these nearby spots
500m away
A unique bistro-style pizzeria in Arthurs Point, known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients and delicious wood-fired pizzas, offering a cozy ambiance.
Be the first to share a photo of this trail
Recent reports from hikers
No condition reports yet.
Be the first to report the current conditions!
See what other hikers are saying
--
No reviews yet
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!
Point to point
The Moonlight Track is packed with "stop-and-stare" moments. One of the most evocative features is the Sefferstown school ruins. Dating back to the 1880s, these stone remnants are a poignant reminder of the families who once lived in this remote alpine environment during the gold rush. Standing there, it’s hard to imagine children navigating these rugged hills just to get to class.
The gold-mining terraces are another fascinatng highlight. You can still see the scars on the land where prospectors once diverted water and shifted tonnes of earth in their search for fortune. These historical layers add a rich narrative to the natural beauty of the trail.
For the photographers, the view from the Ben Lomond Saddle is the ultimate prize. On a clear day, the contrast between the deep blue of Lake Wakatipu and the snow-dusted peaks is nothing short of spectacular. Keep your camera ready as you approach Moke Lake at the end of the hike; the way the mountains reflect in the still water is the perfect "finish line" photo.
The most common starting point is the trailhead at the end of the sealed section of Moonlight Track road in Arthurs Point. There is parking available here, though it can fill up on busy weekends.
If you want to add an even bigger vertical challenge, some hikers choose to start from the Skyline Gondola base on Brecon Street in the heart of Queenstown. You can head up the Tiki Trail, connect to the Ben Lomond Track, and then join the Moonlight Track at the saddle.
Alternatively, if you prefer to do the route in reverse, you can start from the Moke Lake Reserve. Since this is a point-to-point hike, you’ll need to coordinate transport. Many locals use a two-car drop-off system, or you can arrange a local shuttle to pick you up at Moke Lake and bring you back to Arthurs Point.
The backcountry around Queenstown is a haven for native birdlife. As you move through the sub-alpine zones, keep a sharp eye out for the Kea. These mountain parrots are incredibly intelligent and famously cheeky—they might even circle overhead to inspect your gear. Just remember: never feed them, no matter how persuasive they are!
Down in the forested sections near Arthurs Point, you’ll likely hear the melodic, bell-like call of the Tūī long before you see them. The Fantail (Pīwakawaka) is a constant companion, often fluttering just a few metres away to catch the insects disturbed by your boots. In the open tussock lands, look for the New Zealand Pipit, a ground-dwelling bird that blends perfectly with the dry grass. If you happen to be on the trail at dusk or dawn, listen for the haunting "boo-book" call of the Morepork (Ruru), New Zealand’s native owl.
The area surrounding the Moonlight Track is steeped in history. Long before European miners arrived, Māori used the mountain passes in this region as part of their seasonal routes for gathering food and transporting Pounamu (greenstone) from the West Coast.
The track’s name itself comes from the 1860s gold rush, named after George Moonlight, an explorer and prospector. The entire landscape is a testament to the "gold fever" that transformed Queenstown from a quiet sheep station into a global destination. The geology here is dominated by Otago Schist, a metamorphic rock that gives the mountains their characteristic grey, craggy appearance and provided the building material for the historic ruins you’ll see along the way.
After 15 kilometres of mountain air, you’ll likely have a massive appetite. Luckily, the trail ends (or starts) near some of the best spots in Arthurs Point.
The Moonlight Track is a big day out, but it’s one that stays with you long after the muscles stop aching. It’s a chance to breathe deep, walk through history, and see the Queenstown backcountry exactly as it should be seen—on foot.
Rhipidura fuliginosa
Small insectivorous bird with distinctive fan-shaped tail. Friendly and curious, often following walkers through the bush.
Best time: Year-round
Best time: Year-round
Ninox novaeseelandiae
Native owl also known as Ruru. Named for its distinctive two-note call heard at night.
Best time: Year-round
Nestor meridionalis meridionalis
A large, noisy forest parrot, often heard chattering in the treetops and distinguished by its olive-brown and scarlet plumage, though less common than its alpine cousin, the Kea.
Best time: Year-round
500m away
A warm and welcoming local spot in Arthurs Point, offering hearty meals, handcrafted pizzas, cocktails, and genuine hospitality, with an adjoining store for essentials.
500m away
Queenstown's oldest hospitality business, housed in a historic stone building, offering hearty pub fare, a wide selection of New Zealand craft beers, and a large beer garden.
700m away
An alpine dining experience at Coronet Ridge Resort, offering modern New Zealand cuisine with locally sourced ingredients and panoramic views of the Wakatipu Basin and Shotover River.