Along the Ridge: A Day and a Half on the Routeburn Track
A Great Walk of beech forest, alpine herbfields and saddle-top views — practical notes for hikers
You start before sunrise at a roadside car park where the mountains still wear last night's cloud like a shawl. The first steps are soft — a carpet of beech leaf litter that hushes the sound of boots and lets the forest have the first word. The Routeburn Track isn't theatrical at the outset; it draws you in with detail: a silver thread of stream that dares you to keep pace, a fern uncurling like a small green trumpet, and the distant outline of peaks that will eventually demand all of your attention.
Trail Wisdom
Book huts early
If planning a multi-day crossing, reserve DOC huts or campsites months ahead for summer — spaces fill fast.
Layer for changeable weather
Bring a waterproof shell, insulating mid-layer and quick-dry base layer — the alpine can turn cold and wet quickly.
Respect hut etiquette
Use designated cooking areas, pack out rubbish, and follow DOC rules to keep huts usable for everyone.
Plan shuttle logistics
Decide your start and end points in advance and book a shuttle or guided trip to avoid being stranded.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Key Summit boardwalk for panoramic alpine herbfields
- •Quiet viewpoints near Routeburn Falls late in the afternoon
Wildlife
Tūī, Kea
Conservation Note
Huts and tracks are managed by DOC — book responsibly, keep to the marked tracks to protect fragile alpine plants, and pack out all rubbish.
The Routeburn valley was traversed by Maori and later named after a settler family; it's now managed jointly through conservation efforts by DOC.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Wildflowers, Fewer crowds, Birdwatching
Challenges: Unpredictable snow on higher sections, Mud from thawing
Spring brings melting snow and early wildflowers; expect variable trail conditions and pack for cold snaps.
summer
Best for: Stable weather, Hut availability, Full alpine views
Challenges: Peak crowds, Booked-out huts
Summer offers the most reliable weather and long daylight hours — book huts and transport well in advance.
fall
Best for: Crisp air, Fewer people, High visibility
Challenges: Earlier storms, Colder nights
Autumn delivers clear light and quieter trails, but bring warm layers and be ready for early-season storms.
winter
Best for: Snow scenery, Isolation
Challenges: Avalanche risk, Track closures, Requires alpine gear
Winter transforms the Routeburn into an alpine route; only for experienced, well-equipped parties or guided trips.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Waterproof hiking bootsEssential
Provides grip and ankle support on wet, rocky and root-strewn trails.
Lightweight waterproof shellEssential
Protects against sudden alpine rain and wind on exposed saddles.
Insulating mid-layerEssential
Keeps you warm during cold mornings and windy ridge sections.
Water purification/pills
Useful for refilling from streams and reducing plastic waste.
Common Questions
How long is the Routeburn Track?
The full Routeburn Track is roughly 32 kilometers (one-way) and is typically walked over 2–3 days; day-trip options focus on sections such as the Routeburn Valley or Key Summit.
Do I need to book huts in advance?
Yes — during peak season (December–February) huts and campsites book out quickly; reserve through the Department of Conservation (DOC) in advance.
Can I do the Routeburn as a day hike?
Yes. Guided operators run full-day valley walks and Key Summit day trips; independent hikers can do shorter returns but should plan transport logistics.
Is the track suitable for children?
Sections like the lower valley are family-friendly for older children used to walking; multi-day crossings are better for teens with prior tramping experience.
What wildlife might I see?
Expect native forest birds such as tūī and bellbirds, and occasionally kea in alpine areas; avoid feeding wildlife and store food securely.
When is the best time to hike?
Summer (December–February) offers the most stable weather and long daylight hours; shoulder seasons can be beautiful but require more preparation.
What to Pack
Sturdy waterproof boots for traction and ankle support; a warm insulating layer for alpine temps; a waterproof shell for unpredictable weather; water and a purification method to refill from streams.
Did You Know
The Routeburn Track is one of New Zealand’s ‘Great Walks’ and traverses both Mount Aspiring and Fiordland National Parks, managed by the Department of Conservation.
Quick Travel Tips
Bring cash or card for shuttle bookings, reserve DOC huts early, start hikes early to avoid afternoon weather, and carry a lightweight water filter to reduce plastic waste.
Local Flavor
Nearby towns like Te Anau and Glenorchy have cozy cafes and pubs serving local lamb and venison, and small guiding outfits run interpretive trips that connect Māori history and conservation stories with the landscape.
Logistics Snapshot
Length: ~32 km one-way; Typical time: 2–3 days; Highest point: Harris Saddle ~1,255 m; Book huts via DOC; shuttles and guided day trips available from Queenstown and Te Anau.
Sustainability Note
Stick to marked tracks, use huts and designated campsites, carry out waste, and minimize single-use plastics — these actions protect fragile alpine flora and local waterways.