Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Increased pressure on the track has necessitated the introduction of an online booking
system in the Great Walks season, which covers all huts and campsites on the route.
You'll then need to call into the DOC Visitor Centre in either Queenstown or Te Anau to
collect actual tickets, either the day before or on the day of departure. Outside of the sea-
son, bookings aren't required but you'll still need to visit one of the DOC centres to pur-
chase your hut and campsite tickets.
The Routeburn track remains open in winter. However, to traverse the alpine section
after the snow falls is not recommended for casual hikers, as winter mountaineering
skills are required. There are 32 avalanche paths across the section between Routeburn
Falls hut and Howden hut, and the avalanche risk continues through to spring. Always
check conditions with DOC.
The track can be started from either end. Many people travelling from Queenstown try
to reach the
Divide
in time to catch the bus to Milford and connect with a cruise on the
sound. En route, you'll take in breathtaking views from
Harris Saddle
and the top of
nearby
Conical Hill
, from where you can see waves breaking at Martins Bay. From
Key
Summit
, there are panoramic views of the Hollyford Valley and the Eglinton and Green-
stone River Valleys.
There are car parks at both ends of the track, but they're unattended, so don't leave
any valuables in your car.
ROUTE
ESTIMATED WALKING TIME (HR)
Routeburn Shelter to Flats Hut
1½-2½
Flats Hut to Falls Hut
1-1½
Falls Hut to Mackenzie Hut
4½-6
Mackenzie Hut to
Howden Hut
3-4
Howden Hut to the Divide
1-1½
Greenstone & Caples Tracks
HIKING
(huts adult/child $15/5)
Following meandering rivers through peaceful valleys, these tracks
form a loop that many trampers stretch out into a moderate four- or five-day tramp. Basic
huts en route are Mid Caples, Upper Caples, McKellar and Greenstone; Backcountry Hut
Passes must be purchased in advance.
Both tracks meet up with the Routeburn Track; you can either follow its tail end to the
Divide or (if you've prebooked) pursue it back towards Glenorchy. From McKellar Hut
