Queenstown is strikingly set on the pristine shores of the Lake Wakatipu but doesn’t be fooled by its stunning serenity. It is the basin of the strikingly dramatic backdrop of the rising Southern Alps which are every thrill-seekers paradise. These spectacular snow-covered mountains and sun-filled skies are a climber's dream and that it is there where you can experience every second of it on your hike up Ben Lomond.
Details of the Trail
The Ben Lomond Track is a demanding climb and also a full day's hike with a 1,438 m elevation gain. On a clear day, you will be rewarded at the peak of the summit with spectacular panoramic views of New Zealand’s finest countryside.
Located near the centre of Queenstown, there are three access points to the track. These are:
- Tiki Trail: This starts next to the Skyline Gondola base station at the top of Brecon Street.
- One Mile Creek Track: This starts at the Fern Hill roundabout.
- Skyline Access Road: at the top or the bottom of it near Lomond Crescent.
You will get to experience a magnificent lake and astonishing mountain views as you climb up the saddle. The track will get more challenging from here and the walk requires an advanced level of fitness. The last push towards the very top of the Ben Lomond summit is very steep as it approaches the peak at 1748m. At the top on clear days, you can spot Mount Earnslawi and Aspiring!
Although you can complete Ben Lomond from Queenstown, starting from the top of the Skyline Gondola will save an hour of hard hiking and approximately 400 meters of vertical climb.
If you take this route, from the Gondola Complex you can look for the well-signed route that turns into the woods from the sleigh track. After an initial short walk-through plantation forest, the trail slopes as it emerges into open tufts that give your first sights of Ben Lomond towering above you: an unforgettable view!
In the beginning, the trail follows along the side of a major ridge, then briefly crosses a patch of native forest, but other than that you will be sticking to open country with Ben Lomond getting progressively nearer with each striding step.
The trail eventually makes the connection to the top of the ridgeline, where extensive views open up over Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables that lie beyond. From here the trail is absolute pure joy, though there is the steady work to climb uphill toward Ben Lomond Saddle.
Nearing the saddle is the intersection with the Moonlight Track. Here you will find a bench that provides an opportune resting point and chance to assess your conditions. You need to make an informed choice as above the saddle the climb to the peak becomes increasingly difficult. The trail steepens and exposure increases.
In clear weather, the views are inspiring, and just keep getting better and better as you go higher. You should keep heading up, with the occasional small switchbacks and there are a few steps that may require your hands for balance.
Eventually, you will top out on and find the peak of the summit, where you can enjoy commanding views of the Queenstown area and the surrounding mountains.
A mounted sight map on the top of the summit will help you make sense of the peaks in each and every direction. When you have taken in the epic views you will retrace your steps the way you came. Enjoying Ben Lomond all over again on your descent.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ben Lomond
Activities Around Ben Lomond Track
Advice From Other Walkers
The track is extremely muddy and can get really icy towards the summit, decent shoes are highly recommended.
The trail was great with a foggy view of Queenstown until around noon. Bring warmer clothes for the higher elevations since it starts to cool down.
The final ascent for the last mile is very steep, with some mud and sliding rock.
If you want to avoid a crowd at the very top, set off before 8 am. This way you can also avoid the hottest part of the day during the tough climb up.
Weather and Climate
In winter and springtime, the top half of the track gets covered in snow and ice. There is the risk of avalanches and the icy rocks on the track can become very slippery. Therefore, it is definitely not recommended to hike up Ben Lomond outside of the summer and autumn seasons unless you have a lot of experience in hiking with alpine gear over snow and ice terrain.
Flora and Fauna
At the lower levels of the summit, the main tree that you will see is the Douglas Fir which is being actively managed. The main native tree to the area is the Mountain Beech while above the treeline the mountain is covered in tussock. The main bird that can be seen is the Pipit. You can also see some goats.
Is There Parking at The Start of The Ben Lomond Track?
Yes, there is free parking at the bottom of the Tiki Trail. However, this parking lot has a maximum parking time of 4 hours. If you go further along Lomond Crescent, this is where the Skyline Access Road starts, there is free parking along the roadside you can use all day long.
Places to Stay
When it comes to accommodation around Ben Lomond in the Queenstown area you will be spoilt for choice, this dynamic beautiful town has so much to offer. If you are looking for Queenstown accommodation that includes a range of activities, stunning rooms, and access to Ben Lomond, we have picked out some of the best:
All-Inclusive 6 Day Heli-Hike
Enjoy 6 nights of luxurious accommodation whilst you dive into a range of exclusive adrenaline-filled activities. Hike the Ben Lomond trail, visit Steward Island, trek the Fiordland, experience remote Hollyford wilderness, then top off your week with a special helicopter ride over Milford Sound all the way over to Milford Bay. This trip will give you the real views of New Zealand.
A Long Weekend Break & Cruise
If you are after a no expense spared heavenly lodge retreat, then this is the weekend for you. In the day you will be guided up Ben Lomond to experience its stunning views before kicking back and relaxing in your own private hidden lodge.
The following day you will cruise along the serene waters of Milford Sound before taking a flyover so you can see all of Queenstown’s natural beauty from the skies above.
The Weekender Retreat
For something completely different why not take The Weekend Retreat with a clash of reality and fantasy. Not only will you stay in a gorgeous lodge retreat, but you will also be guided to the peak of Ben Lomond by a local guide so you can take in those otherworldly views. But the journey afar doesn’t end there… after you will take a trip to Middle Earth taking the walk that Bilbo made in The Hobbit: An Unexpected Adventure.
Before You Go
Here is the advice from the official New Zealand Government site. Ensure you leave enough daylight hours, but pack a headtorch just in case. In winter, you'll need alpine equipment.
What to expect
A full day's hike with 1,438 m elevation gain. Remember, the peak is only the halfway point.
Hazards
The weather changes rapidly in this region. Hypothermia is a real risk even in summer.
Numerous steep downhill mountain bike tracks intersect with the walking track. Due to the high speeds, these are unsafe for walkers.
Animals have also formed tracks across the mountain. Ensure you follow the signs and orange markers to stay on the right track.
Amenities
There are no toilet facilities beyond the Skyline Gondola. Plan accordingly or bring a pocket toilet, available for purchase at Whakatipu-wai-Māori / Queenstown Visitor Centre.
Ensure you take:
- plenty of food and drinking water
- a water/windproof jacket, a hat and gloves, sunscreen and wear warm, layered clothing
- sturdy footwear such as tramping boots
- head torch
- communication device.
Before you go into the outdoors, tell someone your plans and leave a date and time to raise the alarm if you haven't returned.
