At just 33km long, the Routeburn Track is a unique epic alpine adventure that links two of New Zealand’s National Parks – Fiordland and Mount Aspiring.
One of the most accessible, and well-located of New Zealand’s Great Walks, the Routeburn Track is also the shortest of Fiordland’s Great Walks, and in our opinion offers the best variety when it comes to the scenery. Weaving around mountain lakes, traversing through native New Zealand Beech forests and alpine gardens, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the Southern Alps and get up close to the majestic Earland Falls. Bird watchers are in for a real treat with the cheeky kea, inquisitive fantails and paradise shelducks making regular appearances.
The location of the Routeburn Track makes it ideal for exploring the greater Fiordland and Queenstown regions. With Milford Sound a short drive away, it’s an ideal way to combine your hiking adventure with one of New Zealand’s most spectacular sights.
Easy to follow and with comfortable Department of Conservation Huts, hiking the Routeburn Track independently is a popular and very ‘kiwi’ choice – it means you can enjoy a more personal experience, and at your own pace that’s fully on your terms.
TRACK LOGISTICS
DISTANCE: 33 kms (plus a few short sidetracks) one way – transport required.
DURATION: Your choice – most people spend 3 Days / 2 Nights but it is possible to spend between 1 to 4 days.
START: The Divide (Milford/Te Anau side) or Routeburn Shelter (Glenorchy/Queenstown side).
FINISH: Routeburn Shelter (Glenorchy/Queenstown side) or the Divide (Milford/Te Anau side).
ACCOMMODATION: Department of Conservation huts (bunks and shared facilities) and limited camping.
Day 1: The Divide to Lake Mackenzie Hut (4 – 5 ½ hours, 12km) Day 2: Lake Mackenzie Hut to Routeburn Falls Hut (4 ½ – 6 hours, 11.3km) Day 3: Routeburn Falls Hut to Routeburn Shelter (3-4 hours, 9.8km)
It is possible to walk the track in the opposite direction (starting Routeburn Shelter, finishing at The Divide) however we recommend the above route because it means less uphill and logistically, it is the best use of your time.
If you have the time (5 days or so) you can connect the Routeburn with the Greenstone or Caples track and walk back to the other side of the mountains. Learn more about the Greenstone Caples Track here.
During the Great Walks season, the huts have basic cooking facilities, heating, bunks, mattresses, heating, toilets, solar-powered lighting, running cold water and A DOC ranger in residence. There are no cooking utensils or showers in the huts and bookings are required.
The Routeburn Track is very popular and we recommend you plan your trip early so you can secure your ideal dates. Our premium package includes DOC hut tickets and we also offer a hut only booking service.
Both starting/finishing points of the Routeburn Track are accessible by road. The distance between the Divide Shelter and the Routeburn Shelter is approximately 325km, so you do need to arrange transport. We can take care of all of your transport including car relocation and/or bus.
The Divide Shelter is approximately 1 ½ hour (85km) from Te Anau on the Milford Road. The Routeburn Shelter is accessed 30 minutes (25km) from Glenorchy and 1 ½ hour (70km) from Queenstown. The last 8km of the road is unsealed.
The weather in New Zealand and Fiordland National Park is very changeable. Even if the forecast is for fine weather or it’s the height of summer, you should always be prepared. Heavy rain, strong winds, cold temperatures, snow can happen at any time of the year so make sure you have the right clothing including warm layers and a rain jacket. Check the weather forecast before heading out – here is the Metservice weather report for Fiordland National Park.
A good level of fitness is needed to walk the Routeburn Track and you should make sure it suits your abilities. By walking in the direction of the Divide to the Routeburn Shelter, you will avoid the gradual climb to Harris Saddle, but there will be some steeper sections towards the Routeburn Falls hut and beyond. Talk to us about tramping poles which are an excellent tool to assist you throughout the hike.
See our Great Walks packing list for what you need to take, or book our Great Walk Gear Package and we’ll supply it all for you! Your footwear is one of the most important factors to consider. Most people opt for hiking boots over trainers but it’s a personal choice. Factors you should consider when deciding which footwear include your hiking experience, fitness level and how heavy your pack will be. We recommend hiking boots for support and comfort, but either way, your footwear needs to be well worn in and used to your feet, otherwise – hello blisters! No one wants blisters…
Food-wise, you’ll want to make sure you have enough to last the 3-day walk, plus contingency. Food should be lightweight, tasty, nutritious and provide you with much-needed fuel! Our food packages take care of this.
The Routeburn Track is well-maintained and easy to follow, but some sections are steep and can be slippery. Always stick to the track and look out for your fellow hikers. DOC rangers are stationed in the huts during the Great Walks season, but you should always check the weather before you go, and tell someone of your plans. The New Zealand Mountain Safety Council have some fantastic resources on keeping safe in the great outdoors.
The Routeburn Track is very popular and usually sells out 6 months to 1 year in advance. We recommend planning and booking your trip as early as possible to secure your ideal dates. The Great Walk Season runs from late October until late April every summer. If you are looking at hiking outside of the season, talk to us or find out more about walking in ‘winter’ here.
What are people saying?
A truly memorable experience. A mixture of weather conditions, but it didn't spoil the breathtaking scenery! I did the track over 3 days, finishing at The Divide. Stayed in DOC huts, that were all very clean. I also chose to use a food package from EasyHike company which delivered to my accommodation in Queenstown the day before my hike. Totally hassle-free, great food options, plenty of food, light to pack and carry. I was very happy. A must-do Great Walk!
Complete our food preferences survey, then we personally choose the foods most suited to your ideal experience and deliver to your door before you go. Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Vegetarian and Vegan options available.
Car Relocation from Routeburn Shelter to the Divide (or reverse!) while you walk. Key features: No waiting for the bus, car key security, rental car insurance, and access to your luggage after your walk.
