Immerse yourself in the breathtaking wonders of the Routeburn, a trek that has etched itself as my absolute favourite in New Zealand. The journey spans a mere 33 kilometres, yet it unveils a tapestry of landscapes that are nothing short of magical – alpine lakes, majestic valleys, towering mountain peaks, and cascading waterfalls.
The added allure of encountering rare endemic birds such as the pīwauwau, or Rockwren, Kea, Kākāriki, and Kākā further elevates the Routeburn to a league of its own.
Few hikes seamlessly blend accessibility and rewarding scenery quite like the Routeburn.
As this hike is point-to-point, and though it’s only 33 km, it traverses the Southern Alps through Fiordland and Mount Aspiring National Parks. This means there’s a roughly five-hour drive from end to end. It is key to plan your pre and post-hike transport. Car relocation services and buses are available from Queenstown and Te Anau.
Check out our multi-day hike blog for tips to ensure a comfortable and stress-free adventure!
Choose your direction wisely as the Routeburn can be experienced in either direction. My narrative revolves around a three-day journey starting from the Divide side. We commenced our adventure with a scenic bus ride from Queenstown, which delivered hikers to the trailhead at The Divide Shelter. However, our excitement took a captivating detour with a cruise of Milford Sound before returning to resume our trail in the early afternoon.
The journey begins at The Divide car park, where a gradual ascent winds through a resplendent Silver Beech forest. Views of the Hollyford Valley unfold on clear days, accompanied by the unmistakable cry of the kākā, our forest parrot. An optional side trip to Key Summit promises unparalleled views of an alpine wetland and the glacially formed landscape. From the fork to Key Summit, the trail descends to Lake Howden, then continues uphill to marvel at the Earland Falls, and concludes with a mostly flat, grassy walk to the enchanting Lake MacKenzie.
Today’s leg ascends from Lake MacKenzie to Harris Saddle, the pinnacle at 1255 metres. After rounding the lake, emerge from the bush to traverse the exposed Hollyford Face, soaking in vistas of the Darran Mountains and admire the diverse alpine flora. The Harris day shelter offers respite before a potential two hour side trip to Conical Hill for extended views. Sidle the bluffs around Lake Harris before descending through wetlands and tussock to Routeburn Falls Hut, a serene sanctuary amidst nature's grandeur.
Embark on a steady descent to Routeburn Falls Hut, where a lucky hiker could have a potential encounter with the endemic Mohua, or yellowhead, adding a touch of rarity. The hike along the crystal-clear Route Burn River unfolds on mostly flat terrain, offering numerous idyllic swimming holes along the way.
The Routeburn, a designated Great Walk, is serviced by the Department of Conservation (DOC). During the great walk season (November - April), booking ahead is imperative to secure bunks or campsites. Fully serviced huts equipped with toilets, mattresses, gas, fireplaces, and cold running water enhance the overall experience.
As the Great Walk season concludes, the Routeburn metamorphoses into a challenging higher-risk trek, recommended only for seasoned trampers with avalanche training. Facilities are reduced during the off-season.
The Routeburn isn't just a hike; it's an unfolding masterpiece of nature that captures the heart and soul. From the lofty alpine heights to the verdant valleys, each step reveals a new chapter in this enchanting tale. Whether you're an experienced trekker or a nature enthusiast, the Routeburn invites you into its embrace, promising an adventure that transcends the ordinary and delves into the extraordinary.
Like Oli, you can cruise Milford Sound and hike to the Routeburn’s Key Summit on our Southern Slice and Ultimate South Island tours. If you want an extra adventure, our Ultimate South Island offers a spectacular optional kayak of Milford Sound.
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