Routeburn Track
Routeburn Track
5
About
Great Walks season is October - April (see website for exact dates). Outside this period facilities are greatly reduced and there are additional safety hazards to consider. Always check the website for changes that might affect your trip. See website for the price of accommodation on this track.
Duration: More than 3 hours
Suggest edits to improve what we show.
Improve this listingTours & experiences
Explore different ways to experience this place.
Full view
Top ways to experience Routeburn Track and nearby attractions
The area
Reach out directly
Best nearby
We rank these restaurants and attractions by balancing reviews from our members with how close they are to this location.
Attractions
4 within 6 miles
See what travelers are saying
- Cherie Thomas51 contributionsAbsolutely Awesome AdventureAbsolutely spectacular 3 day tramp through varied flora and fauna. Even saw deer on the horizon, 5 kaka playing above us on the track and heard that brilliant sound of the kea high in the hills. Special sing out to TRACKHOPPER as they relocated our car from Queenstown to The Divide so it was waiting for us when we came off the track. Brilliant communication from Kiyomi right from the time of booking , a truly seamless service that we would highly recommend.Visited November 2023Traveled with familyWritten December 8, 2023
- JMR926Melbourne, Australia103 contributionsSpectacular Mountains, Waterfalls & GlaciersWe started our half-day hike in Mount Aspiring National Park from the Routeburn Shelter trail head and hiked to Routeburn Flats Hut to view a snowcapped Somnus. Mount Aspiring NP is a "dreamland of mountains, glaciers, river valleys and alpine lakes and waterfalls" with distant views of the Remarkables. This was an easy 4 hour return hike.Visited March 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten March 9, 2024
- Sparcs07Epsom, United Kingdom1,208 contributionsExcillerating challenge, rewarding and a memory for lifeI only had a day, so walked from the Routeburn shelter up-to the Harris Shelter ( Summit) and back .. Reading past reviews, I made sure I would arrive and start my walk by 07:30 … 1hr 10 min drive from Queenstown in the dark. Drive the final part of the track to the Routeburn track at daybreak, knowing it’s a rough road and I needed to drive very slowly.. Starting out from the shelter to the Routeburn Flats took 90mins , nice and refreshing and easy flat walk, as it’s a valley a bit damp so had coat on . The climb to Routeburn Falls was challenging, constant uphill loose footing , but spectacular views of valley. By 10:00 I had arrived and took a much needed 20min rest and drink . Great views from balcony and friendly staff .. The final leg to the Harris shelter - wow , you climb up next to a small water fall and then you seem to be in the highlands of Scotland. Stunning , weather seemed to change with the sunlight, as I slowly climbed . With some tougher steep sections to Lake Harris . The final 30mins we turned away from the sun, and had yet another weather change with bleak cloud as we hit the summit . The Harris Shelter is not manned , but a place to warm up and rest, speaking to other walkers. 12:00 I had completed my mission and within 3hr 30min was back at the carpark . Note I had a daypack, the real climbers were carrying much more, and sleeping in the cabins so moving slower. Tips - dress for cold wet and sun , so carry clothes for both, carry and eat energy bars and take your time on the loose boulders .. This suits all ages and skills, just be careful on some sections .Visited March 2024Traveled with friendsWritten April 1, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Contribute
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
674 reviews
Excellent
605
Very good
63
Average
4
Poor
0
Terrible
2
123Alison456
Cromwell, New Zealand40 contributions
Mar 2021 • Couples
Wow is a word I repeatedly said describing every corner of this tramp. When else do you get to walk in two National Parks on a Great Walk.
Starting at Glenorchy end of the track and finishing the three day tramp at the Divide. We were greeted by Keas at Routeburn Shelter so we’re pleased that we had arranged Trackhopper to relocate our car, fantastic team highly recommend.
Day one is a pleasant walk through to Flats hut nice spot for a picnic lunch and then a steady climb to the sublime Falls hut. Take ear plugs if you are easily disturbed by snoring.
Great facilities and Ranger John is really nice with amazing stories.
Day two again is Wow! With the walk up to Harris Saddle. On your way up you pass the amazing Lake Harris that is gorgeous before crossing through the saddle and reaching the Fiordland National Park and the Harris Saddle.
Found Fiordland side a lot harder going with the path narrowing and with rocky pathways. Make sure you are well equipped with good walking boots that are well broken in. Walking poles help. I found my gaiters with metal loops under my boots a hindrance as caught on rocks and branches.
When walking down to Mackenzie hut make sure you stop and turn back as the view behind you changes so much.
Overall this is an amazing tramp, you do need a reasonably good level of fitness, be prepared for all weather it is an alpine crossing after all.
Starting at Glenorchy end of the track and finishing the three day tramp at the Divide. We were greeted by Keas at Routeburn Shelter so we’re pleased that we had arranged Trackhopper to relocate our car, fantastic team highly recommend.
Day one is a pleasant walk through to Flats hut nice spot for a picnic lunch and then a steady climb to the sublime Falls hut. Take ear plugs if you are easily disturbed by snoring.
Great facilities and Ranger John is really nice with amazing stories.
Day two again is Wow! With the walk up to Harris Saddle. On your way up you pass the amazing Lake Harris that is gorgeous before crossing through the saddle and reaching the Fiordland National Park and the Harris Saddle.
Found Fiordland side a lot harder going with the path narrowing and with rocky pathways. Make sure you are well equipped with good walking boots that are well broken in. Walking poles help. I found my gaiters with metal loops under my boots a hindrance as caught on rocks and branches.
When walking down to Mackenzie hut make sure you stop and turn back as the view behind you changes so much.
Overall this is an amazing tramp, you do need a reasonably good level of fitness, be prepared for all weather it is an alpine crossing after all.
Written March 22, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
SD2606
Christchurch, New Zealand2,452 contributions
Nov 2022 • Friends
Rad Routeburn
I completed this Great Walk over three days the first week of November.
We walked about 10-12km a day, with the total being about 30km.
We had a terrible forecast for weather and it turned out to be quite bad.
We had snow (!) and a lot of rain.
So much rain that the waterfalls grew and became quite the dominating feature!
There were a few slips on the track and some sections of the track were closed. There was a detour track which you had to take ‘off roading/off piste’.
One girl broke her arm and a helicopter was arranged to come and pick her up.
Without sounding obnoxious, I am very fit and found that track to be very enjoyable and quite easy.
The uphill sections weren’t too long and weren’t too strenuous.
Most of the track was in excellent condition, like a glorified foot path.
At both huts there was a doc ranger who did a talk in the evening. Very informative and entertaining.
The huts have running water (boil before drinking) and gas in the kitchen.
The ablution block had flushing toilets which was a treat.
There was a long drop toilet positioned along the walk which was a nice surprise.
I would advise any one who wants to do the walk to:
Do some training prior to the trip. Walk 10km at least 2-3 times a week for two months prior – with a weighted pack (15kg)
Take clothing for all weather (ie snow and rain!)
Take extra food in case you get stuck in a hut for a night because of bad weather (we got out just in time)
I completed this Great Walk over three days the first week of November.
We walked about 10-12km a day, with the total being about 30km.
We had a terrible forecast for weather and it turned out to be quite bad.
We had snow (!) and a lot of rain.
So much rain that the waterfalls grew and became quite the dominating feature!
There were a few slips on the track and some sections of the track were closed. There was a detour track which you had to take ‘off roading/off piste’.
One girl broke her arm and a helicopter was arranged to come and pick her up.
Without sounding obnoxious, I am very fit and found that track to be very enjoyable and quite easy.
The uphill sections weren’t too long and weren’t too strenuous.
Most of the track was in excellent condition, like a glorified foot path.
At both huts there was a doc ranger who did a talk in the evening. Very informative and entertaining.
The huts have running water (boil before drinking) and gas in the kitchen.
The ablution block had flushing toilets which was a treat.
There was a long drop toilet positioned along the walk which was a nice surprise.
I would advise any one who wants to do the walk to:
Do some training prior to the trip. Walk 10km at least 2-3 times a week for two months prior – with a weighted pack (15kg)
Take clothing for all weather (ie snow and rain!)
Take extra food in case you get stuck in a hut for a night because of bad weather (we got out just in time)
Written November 9, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
GaryandLesleyTravel
Auckland Central, New Zealand7,676 contributions
Nov 2022 • Couples
Our 5th Great Walk and in my opinion the most spectacular in regards to scenery. Following advice from previous walkers we started at the Divide walking towards Glenorchy a decision we were happy with. Although the weather was not the best the walk was still stunning and of course with rain come waterfalls. The huts at both Lake MacKenzie and Routeburn Falls were very good and waking up to snow falling at the later was beautiful and again glad we were going down from here and not up. The transport to the beginning and pick up at the end all worked seamlessly and was much appreciated. We hired a locator beacon from DOC for this walk as there is no cell coverage on it.
Written January 1, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Cherie Thomas
51 contributions
Nov 2023 • Family
Absolutely spectacular 3 day tramp through varied flora and fauna. Even saw deer on the horizon, 5 kaka playing above us on the track and heard that brilliant sound of the kea high in the hills. Special sing out to TRACKHOPPER as they relocated our car from Queenstown to The Divide so it was waiting for us when we came off the track. Brilliant communication from Kiyomi right from the time of booking , a truly seamless service that we would highly recommend.
Written December 8, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The Wayfarer Travel Co
Hobart, Australia283 contributions
Apr 2023 • Couples
What an excellent hike. We did it over 2 nights and 3 days starting at the Routeburn Shelter. 2 of the 3 days were beautiful weather. The 2nd day was forecaster for 100mm of rain, and it certainly felt like it. We got to the Lake Mackenzie hut not soggy but drenched. Didn't get too much in terms of views but the waterfalls were amazing. Due to poor weather we didn't make it up Conical Hill but on day 3 we did go up Key Summit which had extraordinary views. What a fabulous 3 days in Mount Aspiring and Fiordlands National Parks. The ranger at Lake Mackenzie has been there for over 21 years and is very passionate about bird conservation which was amazing to hear
He even started his own program and has got a lot of support!!
Here's to the next Great Walk in NZ!!
He even started his own program and has got a lot of support!!
Here's to the next Great Walk in NZ!!
Written April 7, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
heatherac
Princeville, HI77 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
As you may have heard, the Fijorlands declared their first ever state of emergency in early February. The day before our hike, one of the shelters was run through by a landslide and everything was closed. Easy Hike, our car relocation service, was the only one to notify us in advance!! We debated taking the bus, but I read on here about their service and attention to detail, and how they made it an overall great experience, and boy is that right!! Toni was especially helpful and not only got back to us promptly with answers but also quickly refunded us. Thank you, Easy Hike for answering all our questions and helping us out of a jam. We’ll be back for the hike and use them for sure! Highly recommended.
Written February 6, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
422iana
Dunedin, New Zealand3,610 contributions
Dec 2020 • Family
I was on yhe Kepler last week with a group and a week later on the Routeburn. We had one group come from Queenstown side and we came from te Anau side swapping keys at Connical Hill. The weather forcast was terrible and afemter having to turn arouns with a group last week I was a little worried. This was the first time since the Slip that the Mckenzie hut connected to the Divide. The campside is about 10 mins from the hut, and it was a little hard to put in the pegs. No issue with that at Flats Hut. The weather got better and better, but check the weatherforcast first. Use Metservice and put in Fijordland National Park and then you can look up Connical Hill to check the highest point (although you don't need to go up, many leave their pack at the shelter). We always carry an Emergency Location Beacon in case of emergencies. They can be hired from the Doc offices if you don't have one.
Written December 9, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Graham
130 contributions
Mar 2020 • Couples
We had just completed the Milford Sound Track and had got used to the extremely high levels of service offered by Ultimate Hikes. Great guides, infra structure, catering, lodges etc. (See my earlier review).
We continued our Classic trek on the Routeburn Track. The major storm on 3rd February wiped out the start of the route making trekking between the start at the Divide to the Earland Falls impassable.
Ultimate Hikes saved the day by flying us into the Mackenzie Lodge on a helicopter ride of a lifetime on Day 1. Truly views of a lifetime. We walked out to the Earland falls for our packed lunch. The falls gives memorable views. Day 2 is the highlight of the Routeburn Track giving incredible views of mountains right out to the sea. Take the opportunity to climb Conical Hill for the cream of these views. This is a top day in the mountains. The day finishes in the comfortable Routeburn Falls Lodge. Day 3 is a pleasant walk out. A bus returned us to Queenstown via Glenorchy for a beer and chips. How else can you celebrate three great days in the mountains?
Thanks to all in DOC and Ultimate Hikes who made this possible; including our fantastic guides Grace, Blake, John and Josh.
Highly recommended.
We continued our Classic trek on the Routeburn Track. The major storm on 3rd February wiped out the start of the route making trekking between the start at the Divide to the Earland Falls impassable.
Ultimate Hikes saved the day by flying us into the Mackenzie Lodge on a helicopter ride of a lifetime on Day 1. Truly views of a lifetime. We walked out to the Earland falls for our packed lunch. The falls gives memorable views. Day 2 is the highlight of the Routeburn Track giving incredible views of mountains right out to the sea. Take the opportunity to climb Conical Hill for the cream of these views. This is a top day in the mountains. The day finishes in the comfortable Routeburn Falls Lodge. Day 3 is a pleasant walk out. A bus returned us to Queenstown via Glenorchy for a beer and chips. How else can you celebrate three great days in the mountains?
Thanks to all in DOC and Ultimate Hikes who made this possible; including our fantastic guides Grace, Blake, John and Josh.
Highly recommended.
Written March 8, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sparcs07
Epsom, UK1,208 contributions
Mar 2024 • Friends
I only had a day, so walked from the Routeburn shelter up-to the Harris Shelter ( Summit) and back ..
Reading past reviews, I made sure I would arrive and start my walk by 07:30 …
1hr 10 min drive from Queenstown in the dark. Drive the final part of the track to the Routeburn track at daybreak, knowing it’s a rough road and I needed to drive very slowly..
Starting out from the shelter to the Routeburn Flats took 90mins , nice and refreshing and easy flat walk, as it’s a valley a bit damp so had coat on .
The climb to Routeburn Falls was challenging, constant uphill loose footing , but spectacular views of valley. By 10:00 I had arrived and took a much needed 20min rest and drink . Great views from balcony and friendly staff ..
The final leg to the Harris shelter - wow , you climb up next to a small water fall and then you seem to be in the highlands of Scotland. Stunning , weather seemed to change with the sunlight, as I slowly climbed . With some tougher steep sections to Lake Harris .
The final 30mins we turned away from the sun, and had yet another weather change with bleak cloud as we hit the summit .
The Harris Shelter is not manned , but a place to warm up and rest, speaking to other walkers.
12:00 I had completed my mission and within 3hr 30min was back at the carpark .
Note I had a daypack, the real climbers were carrying much more, and sleeping in the cabins so moving slower.
Tips - dress for cold wet and sun , so carry clothes for both, carry and eat energy bars and take your time on the loose boulders ..
This suits all ages and skills, just be careful on some sections .
Reading past reviews, I made sure I would arrive and start my walk by 07:30 …
1hr 10 min drive from Queenstown in the dark. Drive the final part of the track to the Routeburn track at daybreak, knowing it’s a rough road and I needed to drive very slowly..
Starting out from the shelter to the Routeburn Flats took 90mins , nice and refreshing and easy flat walk, as it’s a valley a bit damp so had coat on .
The climb to Routeburn Falls was challenging, constant uphill loose footing , but spectacular views of valley. By 10:00 I had arrived and took a much needed 20min rest and drink . Great views from balcony and friendly staff ..
The final leg to the Harris shelter - wow , you climb up next to a small water fall and then you seem to be in the highlands of Scotland. Stunning , weather seemed to change with the sunlight, as I slowly climbed . With some tougher steep sections to Lake Harris .
The final 30mins we turned away from the sun, and had yet another weather change with bleak cloud as we hit the summit .
The Harris Shelter is not manned , but a place to warm up and rest, speaking to other walkers.
12:00 I had completed my mission and within 3hr 30min was back at the carpark .
Note I had a daypack, the real climbers were carrying much more, and sleeping in the cabins so moving slower.
Tips - dress for cold wet and sun , so carry clothes for both, carry and eat energy bars and take your time on the loose boulders ..
This suits all ages and skills, just be careful on some sections .
Written April 1, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nigel Riley
2 contributions
Jan 2020
If you're into trail running, the Routeburn offers you an awesome day out, with challenging technical sections and a fantastic variety of environments and vistas. You just can't lose. If it's a blue sky day, you get to see forever down the valleys and across the mountain ranges. If it's raining cats and dogs, the waterfalls are amazing and your time will be SO much better without stopping to photograph everything you see :-) Strava says 33.37 kilometres with 1,500 elevation gain so it's not an easy run but get your nutrition and hydration right and you'll love it. Remember, it's New Zealand alpine conditions so pack accordingly - thermals, gloves, beanie, jacket and survival blanket. While it's a popular track, take nothing for granted up there and have a brilliant time!
Written January 2, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Recommendations on doing the Routeburn Track to Harris Saddle return in one day in late October?
Written October 25, 2021
Hi, I'm doing track in late March, finishing at the divide before getting bus back to Queenstown. Would you recommend rushing and getting the 10.10am bus or taking time and catching the 15.15pm bus. Thanks.
Written December 30, 2019
The drive back to QT is approx 3.5 hours from the divide
The walk from Mackensie to Divide is about 5 hours total or Howden is 1 hour ......so depending where your staying perhaps the 15.15 bus would be advisable for Mackensie
It’s a wonderful section so don’t rush it 😀
Written January 1, 2020
Hi I’m 65 years old in good shape don’t mind steep sections but don’t like the idea of narrow paths where I am right on the edge . How is Routeburn Track regarding that concern ?
Written November 29, 2019
We walked the Routeburn last weekend. There are some sections where there are big drops but the path is normally quite wide so you aren't teetering on the edge. I can't recall many narrow places. There are a few short swing bridges.
Written December 24, 2020
Hi
We are planning on a one day hike from glenorchy.
Can we do it by ourself or do we need a guide
Is there any entrance to the national park if so is it open on dec 25 th. We are planning to do this on Christmas Day .
Written September 14, 2019
No need for a guide the track will be busy as peak season
Couple of hours to first hut or for a real challenge hike to Harris saddle and back about four hours each way
Written September 26, 2019
Hi, what huts would you recommend staying at when completing the walk in 3days starting from the divide? Thanks
Written June 9, 2019
I would recommend Routeburn Falls & Lake Mackenzie Huts. You may find this brochure useful - has all the information
Written July 8, 2019
thank you for your post on the routeburn trek. we are planning on hiking the milford, kepler and routeburn hikes. did you do the routeburn from the divide to the shelter or the other way? we would be coming from te anau if we separate the milford and the routeburn hike for 1 day to rest, wash and restock food. would you recommend doing the right after each other or a rest day? any other suggestions would be very much appreciated
Written May 14, 2019
It all depends on your fitness but doing it the next day is fine
Written June 25, 2019
How much is the cheapest option for transport from The divide back to the Shelter? Do you have any recommendations next to the official transport buses?
Written December 26, 2018
For two of us it seemed worth it to pay for car relocation... not that much more than the bus and much more convenient. We used EasyHike and they were great!
Written January 22, 2019
I was wondering if this is doable in one day. I'm not keen on staying in a hut- I have sleep issues! We are very fit- run marathons etc. How difficult is the trail? Thanks!
Written July 31, 2018
When we did the track there were a few fit people that were doing it in a day, looked like a long day but as you say you are fit it is very do-able. The track itself is wide and well marked.
Written August 1, 2018
Hi guys I am looking to do this hike as well as a few others this upcoming june/july would you recommend it? We have quite good hiking gear - just saw that the avalanche warnings are in place for those months - has anybody any experiences to share/opinions? Many thanks
Written May 12, 2018
Sorry, I did not receive this notice earlier in my email. just noticed while I logged in TA. Had you been already? If not, then I wold recommend not to approach in Jun July unless you are very serious and skilled trekker. We had been in January. Mid November to February , enjoyable journey. it is not always to achieve the mission also we want to make sure the journey is pleasant.
Written August 17, 2018
Thanks for the info on the Routeburn hike. I have a family of 5 with teenage children, is it necessary to have a guide? Can you explain what the Trackhopper is as that sounds very convenient but I do not know how to order it or what it exactly means.
Thanks!
Written April 14, 2018
Although Guide is not required for 3 days trek, it depends on few factors. The weather is the prime factor now in May. It may be unpredictable and cold. in case of heavy rain, the track becomes slippery and not that friendly. Also, you need to book the hut I suppose? Second factor - is your family used to such trekking under such weather.
Please register before you go for 3 day track. The phone connection does not exist.
The only issue I see is this time of the year and you have children.
if you go with guide or any company, then they will take care of food,communication etc. obviously pricey !
we did 1 day trek to Routeburn Flats which was very easy and definitely no need for guide. Also, you can have 1 day trek from the other side - another option. From The Divide carpark. Actually, if you have one day trek plan, then this is another option. From The Divide carpark follow the Routeburn Track to Howden Hut (1.5 hours).
From here take the track to Mackenzie Hut – the falls are halfway between Howden and Mackenzie Huts. Clearings give excellent views of the Hollyford Valley.
Hope i could explain in detail and enjoy one of the fabulous Great Walk in NZ!
Written April 15, 2018
…
Showing results 1-10 of 38
Is this your Tripadvisor listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim your listing