Maps

Routeburn Track Map

The Routeburn Track is a 39 km crossing over the Humboldt Mountains, normally done in two nights, in either direction. Both the independent and guided walks can stop at the same places, but use different huts. Camping is also available. These brief descriptions contain links to my journal. The numbers on the map are linked to journal entries and the cameras are linked to photographs with captions.

Day 1 Beginning at the Glenorchy end, the track follows the clear blue Routeburn River, climbing past big trees to the lush Routeburn Flats. Both camping and a hut are available here, though the higher hut at Routeburn Falls is more popular. (Dec. 18, 1995)
Day 2 The trail climbs quickly from Routeburn Flats to Routeburn Falls, where there are huts for both independent and guided walkers next to a series of cascades. Above the falls, the trail enters a rocky, grassy alpine environment with some high-altitude lakes. A side hike up Conical Peak is possible from Harris Saddle, providing excellent views of the surrounding mountains, extending to the sea. The track then follows the side of the ridge along Hollyford Valley, descending to Lake MacKenzie, where there are huts for both independent and guided walkers, and a campsite. (Dec. 19, 1995)

Day 3 The trail again follows the edge of Hollyford Valley, passing Earland Falls, a large waterfall. The track passes Howden Hut at Lake Howden, then climbs again toward Key Summit, where a side hike leads to a nature walk through the alpine tundra with views down Hollyford Valley to the sea, and across to the Darren Mountains. Dayhikers may be seen here, as the end of the track is nearby at the Divide. (Dec. 20, 1995)

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