shem banbury

If you’re looking for a challenging hike with breathtaking views in Queenstown, then you’re in the right place – the Ben Lomond Track is my top choice!

Set behind the Queenstown Gondola, from the lake, Ben Lomond is an imposing mountain. The track is a fair challenge, so if you’re a hiker with a decent level of fitness looking for your next adventure, definitely give this one a go. Here are the key details:

• Distance: 15km from road
• Elevation Gain: 1,483 meters
• Difficulty: Difficult / Moderate
• Time Needed: 6 hours (total). We were 5hrs of walking time.
• Type of Trail: Out and back

Starting the Adventure

Rachel and I embarked on this hike on June 8th, in the early winter. We set off at 9 am from the road and returned around 2:15 pm. The day was simply sensational – clear blue skies and only a light wind at the top made for perfect hiking conditions.

We started using the One Mile Creek Trail, which begins at the One Mile Creek parking lot in Queenstown. This route to Ben Lomond summit is not the most popular because it can be confusing. The trail passes lots of other hiking trails and downhill biking tracks that aren’t signposted well. We got lost a couple of times, but luckily came across a local who pointed us in the right direction.

On to the Ben Lomond Track

This got us onto the Ben Lomond track, which skirted around the left-hand side of the gondola. After hiking through more forest at the start of Ben Lomond Trail, you’ll finally get the beautiful views you’ve been waiting for as you breach the trees and enter the sub-alpine area.

From the moment you break through the forest your next aim is the Ben Lomand Saddle, it only takes around 45 minutes at a steady pace. You’ll know you’ve reached the saddle when you see the much-needed park bench to rest on and enjoy the view. There’s also a toilet at this point, which is a welcome sight for hikers!

The Final Push to the Summit

However, if you’re planning on summiting Ben Lomond, then lace up your boots – this next part involves a steep, grueling climb! The last climb from the saddle to the summit only takes around 45 minutes but is straight up the entire way. It is a steady grind for the first part. Then, as you reach the exposed rock, the track becomes technical with lots of rocks, zig-zags, and steps you need to negotiate. This part of the track offers amazing views up the South Island of New Zealand.

The final push sees you traverse around the eastern side of the mountain. The track slightly flattens out here, although it was very icy and slippery.

The Summit: Worth Every Step

Once you reach the top, the views are absolutely mind-blowing! Looking around, you can enjoy 360-degree views of the Southern Alps. Honestly, you feel the full magnitude of your accomplishment and the views are worth the challenge. Rachel and I loved it!

On our descent, we found the trail rather muddy. The ice had melted, making the track very muddy, slippery and challenging, adding another layer of adventure to our hike.

We went down through the gondola and down the Tiki Trail. This was steep and zig zagged its way down the mountain. Once again this was poorly signposted and for such a well used track it was in poor condition.

However, that couldn’t detract from the magnificant views from the top. So if you are in Queenstown and up for a challenge, the Ben Lomond Track should be at the top of your list. Happy hiking!