Ben Lomond Track

This is the Skyline upper-terminal variant of Ben Lomond Track: ride the Skyline Gondola from Brecon Street, then walk from the upper access-road junction to Ben Lomond Summit and return the same way. The full visitor distance is about 11 km/6.8 miles round trip and takes about 6 hours for a fit hiker; the shorter Ben Lomond Saddle option is roughly 7.7 km/4.8 miles return. Starting from Queenstown via the Tiki Trail is a longer alternative and is not the route mapped here.

The route leaves the Skyline complex through open tussock and climbs a ridgeline toward the Ben Lomond Saddle at about 1,326 m, with widening views over Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables. Above the saddle it enters Ben Lomond Station and becomes steeper, rougher, and more exposed before reaching the 1,748 m summit and its broad alpine panorama. Follow the formed track and keep to the route on private farmland.

This is a demanding, exposed alpine track. Mountain weather changes quickly, and snow or ice can make the upper route hazardous outside the more settled season. Carry warm and waterproof layers, sturdy footwear, food, and plenty of water; there is no reliable water beyond the Skyline complex. Start early, allow daylight for the descent, and check current gondola operations and access conditions before setting out.

The mapped start is the Ben Lomond Track junction on the Skyline upper access road after riding the gondola. The lower route intersects mountain-bike trails, so follow walking signs. Toilets are available at the Skyline complex and near the saddle. The track intersects the Moonlight route, but that is a different continuation and requires separate transport planning.