Introduction
Ben Lomond and Bowen Peak Queenstown.
Trekking in New Zealand is an experience like no other. With its stunning scenery and diverse terrain, few places on earth offer such a varied and beautiful landscape to explore. The Ben Lomond and Bowen Peak trek is one of the most popular in New Zealand, and for good reason. Situated in the heart of the Southern Alps, this trek offers incredible views of some of the country’s most iconic mountains, as well as a chance to summit two of New Zealand’s tallest peaks.
Getting There
The Ben Lomond and Bowen Peak trek can be accessed from either Queenstown or Glenorchy. If coming from Queenstown, take the gondola up to the Skyline Queenstown complex. From here, follow the signs for the Ben Lomond track. The trek can also be accessed from Glenorchy, which is a popular starting point for many of New Zealand’s great walks. To get to Glenorchy, take the scenic drive along Lake Wakatipu.
The Hike
The Ben Lomond and Bowen Peak trek is a challenging one, but the rewards are more than worth it. The trek begins with a steady climb through native bushland, before opening up into alpine meadows. The views from here are incredible, with sweeping vistas of Lake Wakatipu and the Southern Alps. As you ascend higher, the landscape changes dramatically, and soon you’ll find yourself among snow-capped peaks and glaciers. The final push to the summit of Ben Lomond is a steep one, but the views from the top are truly breathtaking. From here, it’s a short walk to the summit of Bowen Peak, which offers even more stunning views. The Rob Roy Glacier hike is a moderate to challenging trek, depending on how far you choose to go. The trek begins with a steady climb through native bushland before opening up into alpine meadows. The views from here are stunning, with sweeping vistas of the Southern Alps. As you ascend higher, the landscape changes dramatically, and soon you’ll find yourself among snow-capped peaks and glaciers. The final push to the glacier is a steep one, but the views from the top are truly breathtaking. Once you’ve reached the glacier, you can choose to either turn around and head back down or explore further into the park.
Mount Aspiring National Park
Rob Roy Glacier The Mount Aspiring National Park is home to some of New Zealand’s most beautiful scenery. Situated in the Southern Alps, the park offers a wide range of trekking opportunities, from easy day walks to multi-day expeditions. One of the most popular treks in the park is the Rob Roy Glacier hike. This trek takes you through alpine meadows, native bushland, and eventually onto the glacier itself. The views along the way are incredible, and the trek provides a real sense of achievement.
Pisa Conservation Area – Rock Creek Track
The Pisa Conservation Area is a beautiful spot in New Zealand’s Otago region. With its towering cliffs, native bushland, and rocky beaches, it’s easy to see why this place is so popular with hikers and climbers. One of the best ways to explore the area is by trekking the Rock Creek track. This trek takes you through some of the most stunning scenery in the conservation area, including native bushland, rocky beaches, and cliff-top views.
What to expect when hiking in Otago, New Zealand
When it comes to trekking and hiking, Otago has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for an easy day walk or a multi-day expedition, there are plenty of great options to choose from. In this guide, we’ll take a look at some of the best trekking and hiking trails in Otago, as well as what you need to know before you go.
The best treks in Otago
Have you always wanted to explore New Zealand’s stunning landscapes? If so, then a trek in Otago is a must-do. With its rolling hills, valleys, and gorgeous sea views, Otago offers some of the best treks in the country.
Here are some of our favorites
- The Key Summit Walk: Located in the Southern Alps, this short but challenging hike takes you through beech forest and alpine meadows to the Key Summit the highest point on the Route burn Track. The Views from the top are 360 degrees of pure New Zealand beauty.
- The ENCALADE Mountain Bike Trail: This epic trail takes you from Queenstown through Arrow town and on to Highlands Park. The trail is named after the French mountain race, and it’s not for the faint-hearted. With over 35km of uphill trekking, this is a real challenge for even the most experienced hikers.
- The Earnslaw Burn Track: This beautiful trail follows the Earnslaw Burn as it winds its way through native forest and alpine meadows. The trail culminates in a stunning waterfall, which is well worth the effort.
Tips for trekking in Otago
Before you head off on your trekking adventure, there are a few things you need to know. Here are our top tips:
Make sure you’re adequately prepared before you go. This means having the right gear (see below) and being aware of the conditions you’ll be trekking in.
Be sure to follow the marked trails and take any necessary safety precautions.
If you’re trekking in the winter months, be aware of avalanche risks and take the necessary precautions.
Gear you will need for trekking in Otago
Now that you know what to expect and where to go, it’s time to start planning your trip. Here’s what you’ll need to make sure your trekking adventure is a success:
Hiking boots: A good pair of hiking boots is essential for any trekking trip. Be sure to choose a pair that’s comfortable and waterproof.
Warm clothing: If you’re trekking in the winter months, make sure you pack plenty of warm clothing. Layering is key to staying comfortable in the cold weather.
A map: Be sure to bring a map of the area you’ll be trekking in. This will help you stay on track and find your way back if you get lost.
A first-aid kit: It’s always better to be safe than sorry, so make sure you pack a first-aid kit in case of any accidents.
