Ben Lomond Track

The Ben Lomond Track rewards trampers with spectacular panoramic views over Queenstown, Lake Whakatipu and the surrounding mountain ranges. These include Ka-kamu-a-Hakitekura/Cecil and Walter Peaks and Kawarau/Remarkables. In fine weather, you may even spot Mounts Pikirakatahi/Earnslaw and Tititea/Aspiring in the distance. The area between Rat Point and Arthurs Point (including Ben Lomond) above Queenstown has a year-round ban on outdoor fires.

Tiki Trail to Ben Lomond Summit

Time: 6-8 hr return

km return This track starts from the Skyline Gondola base on Brecon street. The track begins among Douglas fir on the Tiki Trail behind the stone wall of the cemetery. At about 800 m altitude you leave the tree line behind to enter alpine tussocks and shrubs. Climb to the 1,326 m Ben Lomond Saddle. Beyond the saddle is Ben Lomond Station where the track crosses private land and is unmaintained. From here, the terrain becomes steeper and rougher. The hardest part of the climb remains as you approach Ben Lomond's 1,748 m summit. There are steep drop offs from the track on the way to the summit. The track here can be more treacherous if covered in snow and ice. Note: The section from the saddle to the summit crosses private land. Respect the landowner’s rights and keep to the formed track to avoid stock disturbance and farm hazards.

Tiki Trail to Ben Lomond Saddle

Time: 5 hr return

km return You can follow the Tiki Trail to hike to Ben Lomond Saddle from Queenstown.

Skyline Gondola top complex to Ben Lomond Saddle

Time: 3-4 hr return

km return Enjoy a shorter tramp on the Ben Lomond Track by riding the Gondola to the Skyline complex and hiking to the Ben Lomond Saddle and back. This is a good option for trampers who would like to take in the views while building the fitness and experience required to hike to the summit.

Understand if you are ready for the Ben Lomond Track

Watch the NZ Mountain Safety Council’s walk-through video which takes you through how to prepare for this track. Including facilities, key decision points, hazards and typical conditions for the area.