Ben Lomond Track

Ben Lomond Track offers families multiple hiking options ranging from easy forest walks perfect for young children to challenging summit climbs for adventurous teens. The lower sections provide accessible nature experiences with stunning Lake Wakatipu views, while families can turn back at any point, making it flexible for different fitness levels and ages. The track showcases New Zealand's remarkable alpine scenery right from Queenstown's doorstep.

• ✓Breathtaking 360-degree views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the Remarkables mountain range
• ✓Native New Zealand forest with unique bird species like fantails and bellbirds in lower sections
• ✓Alpine meadows and tussock grasslands at higher elevations showcasing South Island landscapes
• ✓Flexible turnaround points allow families to customize the hike to their ability level
• ✓Combination with Skyline Gondola makes for an exciting full-day adventure

1. 1.Start early in the morning (7-8am) to avoid afternoon heat and clouds that can obscure the spectacular views at higher elevations.
2. 2.Access the trailhead via the Skyline Gondola (saves energy for the hike) or walk up from Queenstown (adds 1-2 hours). Most families with kids find the gondola start much more manageable.
3. 3.Bring layers as temperatures drop significantly with elevation. Weather can change rapidly in the mountains, so pack rain jackets even on sunny days.
4. 4.Download offline maps before you go as cell service becomes unreliable higher up the track.
5. 5.For families with younger kids, the first 30-45 minutes offers beautiful forest walking and views without extreme difficulty, perfect for a taste of New Zealand hiking.

Visit during summer (December to February) for the most stable weather and warmest temperatures, though spring (October-November) and autumn (March-April) offer fewer crowds and clear skies. Start your hike in early morning (7-9am) to maximize good weather windows and avoid afternoon cloud cover that often rolls in.

The track is free to access, but the Skyline Gondola (if used for access) costs around NZD 50-60 for adults and NZD 30-35 for children. No facilities exist on the trail itself, so bring all food, water (at least 2 liters per person), and snacks. The full summit hike is 6-8 hours return and extremely strenuous.

Best hiked November through April when weather is most favorable and snow has cleared from upper sections. Winter (June-August) brings snow and ice to higher elevations, making the track dangerous without proper equipment and experience. Track conditions can be muddy after rain year-round. Always check local weather forecasts and Department of Conservation alerts before attempting the hike.

Back in Queenstown, head to Fergburger (iconic New Zealand burger joint with options for kids and massive portions perfect after a hike) or Patagonia Chocolates for ice cream and sweet treats. The Skyline Gondola complex also has a buffet restaurant and cafe if you used the gondola for trail access.