Hike to the highest peak in Queenstown and get rewarded with spectacular views
Time: 6 to 8 hours
Grade: Difficult
Start: Skyline Gondola
The Ben Lomond track is well sign posted from the Skyline Gondola. It will take you about 3 -4 hours to hike to the saddle and then another 1 or 2 hours (of steeper and rougher track) to the summit.
The reward for 6-8 hours of walking (return) is a spectacular panoramic view of the Remarkables mountain range, Lake Wakatipu and the bustling town below. Please remember this is Alpine hiking and you should take warm weather clothes as the conditions can change quickly and thus turn extreme.
Things to note:
Access from the Skyline Access Road or from the Tiki Trail starting at the top of Brecon Street. Ensure you leave enough daylight hours, but pack a headtorch just in case. In winter, you’ll need alpine equipment. This is a full day’s hike with 1,438 m elevation gain but remember, the peak is only the halfway point. The weather changes rapidly in this region. Hypothermia is a real risk even in summer. Numerous steep downhill mountain bike tracks intersect with the walking track. Due to the high speeds these are unsafe for walkers. Animals have also formed tracks across the mountain. Ensure you follow the signs and orange markers to stay on the right track.
There are no toilet facilities beyond the Skyline Gondola. Plan accordingly or bring a pocket toilet, available for purchase at Whakatipu-wai-Māori / Queenstown Visitor Centre.
Be prepared. Ensure you take:
- plenty of food and drinking water
- a water/windproof jacket, a hat and gloves, sunscreen and wear warm, layered clothing
- sturdy footwear such as tramping boots
- head torch
- communication device
