Passing through two national parks—Mount Aspiring National Park and Routeburn National Park—the Routeburn Track crosses the main mountain divide that runs down the South Island, offering spectacular alpine scenery of rows of snow-capped peaks and steeply scoured mountain valleys.

Below the bush line, the track passes through thick rainforest. Looking up you'll see the beech trees that form the canopy. At ground level, you'll see dozens of species of ferns, mosses, and vines (and dozens of shades of green), all fed by the copious precipitation that falls on this rainforest.

Even with the booking system, crowds can be a problem on the Routeburn in the summer, but most trekkers find the scenery worth that small price.

Know Before You Go Miles: 20 Days: Three Notes: This popular track can be walked either independently or with guides. As on the Milford Track, you must have reservations for huts, and must stick to your schedule. Two campsites are also available; reservations are required. Weather: As on the Milford Track, this is a rainforest. Expect to get wet.

Move on to Lake Waikaramoana Track

Return to Top

Hike New Zealand! Strike out on foot into some of the most dramatic landscapes on the planet. More Classic Hiking Central America Middle East Asia The Southwest Editors' Choice Trips!