Pros & cons
PROS
- Peaceful lake right at the Routeburn–Greenstone–Caples junction
- Easy half-day add-on from The Divide, often paired with Key Summit
CONS
- Lake Howden Hut is permanently closed and there’s no accommodation
- Expect wet, muddy sections and pesky sandflies after rain
Overview
Lake Howden is a small, pretty basin lake tucked into silver beech forest just east of Key Summit. It’s a natural crossroads where the Routeburn, Greenstone, and Caples Tracks meet—perfect for catching your breath between big Fiordland days or sneaking in a mellow side trip.
What You’ll See
Approaches to the lake pass reflective tarns, mossy forest, and glimpses of the surrounding mountains. From the shore you get open views across dark, still water to steep, forested slopes—classic Fiordland mood.
Getting There
Most day hikers reach Lake Howden from The Divide on the Routeburn/Key Summit corridor. It’s an easy half-day outing and commonly combined with the short Key Summit detour for broader alpine vistas.
Facilities and Closures
The former Lake Howden Hut was damaged in a 2020 storm and is permanently closed and removed. There’s no accommodation at the lake and no services; the nearest legal camping is Greenstone Saddle Campsite about 20 minutes away on the Greenstone Track. Road access, parking, and services are at The Divide carpark, not at the lake.
Wildlife
The surrounding beech forest can be good for native birds—keep an eye and ear out for robins, tomtits, fantails, and, if you’re lucky, kea overhead. Quiet moments on the shore may reveal waterfowl.
Trail Notes and Conditions
Fiordland is famously wet. After rain, expect muddy sections and occasional flooding in places along nearby tracks. Sandflies are common near water—pack repellent.
Best Time to Visit
Shoulder months (early November or April) help dodge peak Routeburn demand while still offering good walking conditions. If you’re planning overnights on adjacent tracks, book DOC huts/campsites well in advance during the December–March peak.
Where it is
-44.8198, 168.1369Tips for Lake Howden
- 01Pair it with the Key Summit side trip for big alpine views.
- 02There’s no lodging at the lake—book nearby huts/campsites or use Greenstone Saddle Campsite.
- 03Carry rain gear and warm layers; weather turns fast in Fiordland.
- 04Bring strong insect repellent for sandflies.
- 05Start from The Divide for an easy half‑day out-and-back.
Near Lake Howden
All places →All trails →
0.5 mi awayKey Summit Lookout360-degree alpine views and tarns via a short Routeburn side tripScenic Viewpoint · Exhibit
1 mi awayThe DivideBusy gateway to Routeburn and Key Summit with shelter and toiletsTrailhead · Restroom
1 mi awayKey Summit TrackShort climb to Fiordland panoramas, tarns, and alpine bogsModerate · 4.2 mi · 2.5 hr
1 mi awayRouteburn TrackA classic 20 mile alpine traverse with huts, lakes, and big views.Challenging · 20 mi · 24 hr
1 mi awayRouteburn Track to Lake MackenzieRainforest to alpine, finishing at a glassy blue lakeModerate · 7.5 mi · 4.5 hr
1 mi awayEarland Falls via Routeburn TrackLush Routeburn stroll to a thundering 174 m cascadeModerate · 9.3 mi · 6 hr
1.5 mi awayEarland Falls174 m Routeburn waterfall that drenches the track after rainScenic Viewpoint
1.6 mi awayPop's View LookoutQuick pull-off with big Hollyford Valley views and cheeky keaPullout · Parking
