Hump Ridge Track

Why go

If you want Fiordland’s greatest hits in one demanding package, this is it. The Hump Ridge Track is a 60–62 km (about 38 miles) loop that packs wild coastline, dense native forest, a windswept sub‑alpine ridge, and historic logging relics into three long days. It’s rugged and remote, but uniquely cushy at night thanks to the Okaka and Port Craig Lodges—think hot showers, a licensed bar, and even private rooms.

The experience

Day 1 climbs from sea level at Blue Cliffs Beach up to the Hump Ridge and Okaka Lodge, gaining over 800 m on rough, often steep track with sections of boardwalk. The reward: ridge‑top walkways and panoramic views across Fiordland toward Stewart Island. Day 2 drops through lush podocarp and beech forest to Port Craig, following old tramlines and crossing some of the largest surviving wooden viaducts in the Southern Hemisphere. Day 3 works back along the southern coast and forest to Rarakau; note the final ~10 km typically retrace part of Day 1.

Underfoot you’ll see a bit of everything: beach and gravel paths, wooden boardwalks, stairs, rocky roots, and historic tramway grades. The ridge traverses ancient, uplifted marine sediments—classic Fiordland drama shaped by tectonics and glaciation. Birdlife is present in the forest, but the star here is the constant shift from surf to summit and back again.

Length, difficulty, and who it’s for

Expect 3 days of 7–9 hours each. This loop’s total is 60–62 km; fitness needs to be moderate–high. The big climb between the coast and the ridge is the crux, and weather can turn a moderate day into a serious one. If you’re fit and like a challenge with a side of comfort, it’s a standout.

Logistics

• Start/finish: Rarakau Car Park near Tuatapere (parking available; small donation). Shuttle services run from Tuatapere.
• Accommodation: Okaka and Port Craig Lodges offer dorms and private rooms, hot showers, and a licensed bar; basic supplies are available, but bring your own food. Bookings are essential through the Hump Ridge Track Trust (standard DOC hut passes are not valid).
• Extras: Helicopter bag transfers—and even flights to the lodges—are available if you want to ease the load. The track itself is not wheelchair accessible, though both lodges have wheelchair access via helipad.
• Regulations: Hiking only; no dogs.

Best time to hike

The track operates late October to late April (closed in winter). Summer (December–February) brings the most reliable conditions; late spring and early autumn can mean fewer people. Regardless of season, Fiordland’s weather is infamously changeable—carry full rain gear and warm layers for ridge wind, low cloud, and cold snaps.

Heads-up

Days are long, sandflies can be relentless on the coast and in still forest air, and the out‑and‑back feel on the final stretch won’t thrill everyone. But the coast‑to‑alpine variety and those ridge panoramas more than make up for it.