Routeburn Track
The Routeburn Track is one of New Zealand’s best known alpine walks, linking Fiordland National Park with Mount Aspiring National Park. While it is often associated with Queenstown, the track is typically accessed from the Glenorchy side or from the Milford Road near Te Anau.
Walkers come for the changing scenery. The route passes through beech forest, alongside clear rivers and waterfalls, and climbs to open alpine sections with wide views of mountains, valleys, and lakes. Highlights include Routeburn Falls, Lake Harris, and the Harris Saddle, depending on how far you go.
The full Routeburn Track is a multi day Great Walk managed by the Department of Conservation, with huts and campsites along the way that need to be booked in season. If you are not doing the full crossing, shorter guided and independent day walks are also popular, including sections near Routeburn Shelter and Key Summit, which is reached from the Milford Road end. Weather in this area can change quickly, so visitors should plan carefully and check track conditions before setting out.
Tours & Tickets Visiting Routeburn Track
5 tours found
Milford Sound Flight and Cruise ex Queenstown (incl Lunch)
Milford Sound Flight and Cruise ex Queenstown
Routeburn Track Guided Hike (Full Day)
Full-Day Routeburn Track Key Summit Guided Walk from Te Anau
Milford Sound Scenic Flight with Landing from Queenstown
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Where is the Routeburn Track and how do I get there from Queenstown?
The Routeburn Track is in Mount Aspiring and Fiordland National Parks, with trailheads at Routeburn Shelter near Glenorchy and The Divide on the Milford Road. From Queenstown, most visitors drive or book a shuttle to one end and arrange transport back from the other.
How long does the Routeburn Track take and can I do it as a day walk?
The full Routeburn Track is usually completed over 2 to 4 days and is one of New Zealand's Great Walks. You can also do shorter day hikes from either end if you do not want to walk the entire track.
What should I expect on the Routeburn Track?
Expect alpine scenery, native forest, waterfalls, rivers, and mountain views, with some steep and exposed sections at higher elevations. Weather can change quickly, so conditions may be challenging even in summer.
Do I need to book huts or campsites, and is the track suitable for everyone?
If you plan to stay overnight during the Great Walk season, huts and campsites generally need to be booked in advance through the Department of Conservation. The track is well formed in many places but is not wheelchair accessible and requires a good level of fitness for the full route.