Ben Lomond Track

Reward yourself with stunning 360° views over Queenstown and the surrounding region on this challenging hike to the summit of Ben Lomond, which starts from the Gondola base station in the heart of downtown Queenstown. 

Distance: 11 km return

Duration: 3-4 hr (return) to Ben Lomond Saddle, 6-8 hrs (return) to Ben Lomond Summit.

Difficulty: Advanced

Best time of year to go: October till April / May.

Location: Queenstown.

Start / finish point: The Gondola base station on Brecon Street, or you can cut out the Tiki Trail and start from the top of the Skyline Gondola access road.

Insider’s tip: This trail intersects with the Moonlight Track, so instead of heading to the summit of Ben Lomond, you can detour onto the Moonlight and head for Arthur’s Point or Moke Lake.

The Ben Lomond hike experience

The track starts climbing through a plantation of firs, before you leave the forest behind and enter tussock country, where you’ll be able to see Ben Lomond above you.

From here the track climbs to a ridgeline, with views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables, and from there you’ll climb to the Ben Lomond saddle, at 1,326 m. The track crosses mountain bike trails so keep an eye out for cyclists hurtling down hill.

After the saddle you’ll enter Ben Lomond Station. This is private land so please keep to the tracks to avoid disturbing farm animals. The track becomes steeper and rougher with more and more spectacular views, until you reach the summit of Ben Lomond at 1,748m. Here an interpretation panel helps you identify the peaks that surround you.

Remember that the summit is only your halfway point and the descent can be as demanding as the climb, so start early and allow plenty of daylight for your climb

This is an exposed alpine track and mountain weather is changeable. Let people know where you’re going, wear appropriate footwear, carry warm layers including waterproofs, and take plenty of food and water. Read our guide to outdoor safety for more information.