HIKING IN QUEENSTOWN Your Guide to the Best Walks in the Region
Queenstown sits at the foot of some of the most dramatic walking country in New Zealand. From short lakeside strolls to full-day alpine climbs, the trails around the town cater to every level of walker and reward you with scenery that is difficult to match anywhere in the country. Many of the best tracks start within walking distance of the town centre, meaning you can be in the hills within minutes of leaving your front door.
BEN LOMOND TRACK The Signature Walk of Queenstown
The Ben Lomond Track is the standout walk in the Queenstown area and one of the finest day hikes in the South Island. The trailhead is accessible directly from Lomond Crescent, making it a genuine walk-from-the-door experience for guests staying at our properties.
The full summit climb takes around five to six hours return and gains approximately 1,400 metres in elevation. The trail passes through native beech forest before opening onto exposed tussock ridgeline with views stretching across Lake Wakatipu, the Remarkables, the Crown Range, and on a clear day as far as Mount Aspiring.
For those not wanting the full summit, the Ben Lomond Saddle is a popular halfway point at around three hours return. The views from the saddle are exceptional and the terrain is considerably more forgiving than the final push to the top.
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging Time: 3 hours return to saddle / 5 to 6 hours return to summit Start: Lomond Crescent or via the Skyline Gondola to Bobs Peak What to bring: Sturdy footwear, water, snacks, and extra layers
TIKI TRAIL Town Centre to the Top
The Tiki Trail connects the town centre to the Skyline complex at Bobs Peak and is the most popular uphill walk in Queenstown. The trail climbs steeply through native bush and takes around 45 minutes to reach the top, where panoramic views across Lake Wakatipu and the town below make the effort worthwhile. The gondola can be taken back down if you prefer not to descend on foot.
Difficulty: Moderate Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour one way Start: Brecon Street, central Queenstown
QUEENSTOWN HILL TIME WALK A Local Favourite Above the Town
Queenstown Hill sits directly above the town centre and offers a well-graded walk through native bush to an open summit with 360 degree views across the Wakatipu Basin. The track is clearly signposted from Belfast Terrace and takes around two hours return at a comfortable pace. A good option for families or those looking for a shorter outing with a genuine view at the end.
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Time: 2 hours return Start: Belfast Terrace, central Queenstown
LAKE WAKATIPU WALKWAY Easy, Scenic and Suitable for Everyone
The Queenstown Lakeside Trail follows the shore of Lake Wakatipu from the town centre through the Queenstown Gardens and on towards Frankton. The full trail takes around two hours one way, though most walkers do a shorter out-and-back section along the waterfront. Easy, flat, and suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The views across the lake to the Remarkables are consistently beautiful throughout.
Difficulty: Easy Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on distance Start: Queenstown Bay waterfront
ARROWTOWN TO MACETOWN TRACK A Gold Rush Journey Through the Gorge
Located 25 minutes from Queenstown, this historic track follows the Arrow River through a dramatic gorge to the ruins of the gold rush town of Macetown. The track involves multiple river crossings and should only be attempted when water levels are low. A full day walk of around six to seven hours return that rewards those who complete it with a genuine sense of remoteness and history.
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging Time: 6 to 7 hours return Start: Arrowtown
ROUTEBURN TRACK One of New Zealands Great Walks
The Routeburn Track starts at the head of Lake Wakatipu near Glenorchy, around 45 minutes from Queenstown. The full track runs for three days through alpine terrain between Mount Aspiring and Fiordland National Parks. A popular day walk option is to walk the first section from the Routeburn Shelter to Routeburn Flats, around three hours return, which gives a strong sense of the alpine landscape without requiring an overnight stay. Booking huts in advance through the Department of Conservation is essential for the full track.
Difficulty: Moderate (day walk) / Moderate to Challenging (full track) Time: 3 hours return (day walk) / 3 days (full track) Start: Routeburn Shelter, 45 minutes from Queenstown via Glenorchy
PRACTICAL NOTES Before You Head Out
New Zealand mountain weather can change quickly regardless of the season. Always check the MetService forecast at metservice.com before heading out and carry extra layers, waterproofs, and enough water and food for your planned walk. Let someone know your plans if heading into the alpine zone.
The Department of Conservation website at doc.govt.nz has up-to-date track conditions, hut booking information, and safety advice for all tracks in the region.
Our Lomond Crescent properties back directly onto the trail network, putting Ben Lomond, the Tiki Trail, and some of the best walking in New Zealand within minutes of your front door. Start early, go as long as you like, and come back to a properly comfortable home when you are done. Browse our properties and book direct.