Ben Lomond Track

The Ben Lomond Track is a challenging alpine hike starting near the Skyline Gondola in Queenstown, offering panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and the Southern Alps. The 6-8 hour round trip ascends through native forests and tussock grasslands, leading to the summit at 1,748 meters. Weather conditions can change rapidly, and the climb requires a good level of fitness.

The Ben Lomond Track in Queenstown, New Zealand, is a spectacular hike uphill the Ben Lomond beginning at the Douglas fir on Skyline Access Road or from the Tiki Trail, where it later takes its way through the alpine tussocks and shrubs to reach the checkpoints. Hikers can either walk till the Ben Lomond Saddle or to the Ben Lomond Summit, over which the beautiful views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu and the nearby mountain ranges await them. The walk begins from the Lomond Crescent, following a step and gravelled road, and then the path to the trail starts with the climb uphill.

Once at the Ben Lomond Saddle, the hikers get mesmerizing views of the lake and the town, along with enchanting views of the Ben Lomond Summit and Arthur’s Point. The path from here on is a treat to the watchful eyes and is sometimes covered in the snow till the beginning of spring. The climb to the Ben Lomond Summit from the saddle is a challenging and preferred track, especially in the summer, as the snow-clad way in winter makes it difficult for the hikers.

However, the view on the summit and the track is impressive, with rare views of Mount Aspiring Range and Mount Earnslaw. The way uphill is a challenging one, but the view one grabs hold of when at the peak is something worth holding on to.