Description

The Ben Lomond Track is a demanding climb and a full day's hike with an 1,438 m elevation gain. On clear days trampers are rewarded at the summit with spectacular panoramic views. 3-4 hr to Ben Lomond Saddle, 6-8 hr to Ben Lomond Summit. The track begins among Douglas fir on Skyline Access Road or the Tiki Trail. At about 800 m altitude you leave the tree line behind to enter alpine tussocks and shrubs. Climb to the 1,326 m Ben Lomond Saddle (Ben Lomond Station) before the track gets steeper and rougher as it approaches Ben Lomond's 1,748m summit. Note: The section from the saddle to the summit crosses private land. Respect the landowner's rights and keep to the formed track to avoid stock disturbance and farm hazards. In winter you will need to carry and be able to use alpine equipment such as ice axe and crampons. The track may change between very slippery and muddy. Located near central Queenstown, the two access points to this track are: The Tiki Trail starting next to the Skyline Gondola base station at the top of Brecon Street, or Either the top of Skyline Access Road or the bottom of it near Lomond Crescent. There are no toilet facilities beyond the Skyline Gondola. Plan accordingly or bring a pocket toilet, available for purchase at Whakatipu-wai-Mori / Queenstown Visitor Centre. Ensure you leave enough daylight hours, but pack a headtorch just in case. No dogs.