Routeburn Track

The Routeburn Track is a world-renowned hiking trail found in the South Island of New Zealand. The track is usually completed by starting on the Queenstown side of the Southern Alps and finishing on the Te Anau side, or vice versa.

This magnificent track links Mount Aspiring National Park with Fiordland National Park.

• Spectacular mountain peaks
• Pristine lakes and waterfalls
• Vast valleys and alpine gardens
• Rich birdlife including Kea
• Historic huts and shelters

The Routeburn Track links Fiordland and Mount Aspiring National Parks, and its huts and campsites are in high demand during the Great Walks season.

What affects availability

• Two directions: the track can be walked from either end, so availability differs by start point
• Alpine weather: mountain conditions can lead to changed plans and cancellations
• Queenstown access: the track is within reach of a major visitor centre

How alerts work

When someone cancels, the place goes straight back on sale in DOC's booking system with no notice. We check DOC's booking system around the clock and alert you when a spot opens up for the dates you are watching. You then book it directly with DOC.

Routeburn Track sold out?

There is no DOC waitlist, but Routeburn Flats, Routeburn Falls and Lake Mackenzie nights reopen all season through cancellations, in both directions. Read when Routeburn cancellations appear and how to catch one.