The Routeburn Track is definitely one of the greatest walks in New Zealand, and the world. The scenery is nothing short of spectacular, the track is challenging, the flowers are amazing and the wilderness is remote and rugged.
These photos were all taken while I walked the track on the 13-15th of February, 2004. As you can see, the weather wasn't the greatest, but that took absolutely nothing away from this amazing experience. With a group of good friends, the right equipment, plenty of great food and some informative guides, this experience is one I will never forget!
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More information about the Routeburn Track |
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Comparison between the Routeburn and Milford Tracks |
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This is the view from "Key Summit". After a couple hours of climbing, you arrive here with panoramic views that make it all worth it! |
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This is typically what the trail looks like on the first day, very dense forest and a nice walking path. |
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| You'll soon realize that New Zealand has no shortage of water! Along the Routeburn you will see so many waterfalls and small streams like this one! |
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Steadily making our way... you can see that the packs supplied are a very reasonable size and only filled with your clothing for the 3 days. |
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| What, another waterfall?! This is Earland Falls, another beautiful spot for a short break. |
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Have you ever seen such a green place? |
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| If you look really closely you can see the lodge near the corner of Lake MacKenzie. Not a bad spot to spend the first night hey? Definitely in the middle of nowhere. |
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As you can see, there are plenty of wildflowers along the way! The colors and variety of flowers are truly beautiful. |
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| When I got to the top of Paddy's Corner, the views were spectacular and perched right on the highest rock was a Kea bird. They are certainly well camouflaged! |
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The view in the other direction from atop Paddy's Corner truly is spectacular! The Routeburn River is on the valley floor. |
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| Almost at the end of the second day, you can see the lodge in the background behind Wally & Bab's! Another great day! |
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Walking down to the valley floor on day 3... |
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| Mike & Jake on one of the many swing bridges along the trail. |
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Almost at the end of the trail... crossing the Routeburn river. |
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| That's it! On the way out we drove over the Dart River... certainly spectacular country. Many scenes from Lord of the Rings were filmed in this area and it isn't hard to see why! After completing the walk, you can take and optional Jet Boat ride up the Dart River - highly recommended! |
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| Overall, the Routeburn Track was an incredible experience. You get a great sense of achievement after completing it and I was truly impressed with the people that did the track in our group - the oldest was 74! You definitely need to be in good walking shape, but with a little determination and a sense of adventure, it is all worth it! |
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| Are you up for the challenge?
Contact us for more information on the Routeburn Track. You can do it as part of your Best of the South Island tour, or you can add it onto any other trip we do. |
