Kepler Track
✓ Verified against the agency · DOC60 km circuit from Te Anau. Built in 1988 to relieve pressure on the Milford and Routeburn. Features a full-day exposed alpine ridgeline traverse above the bushline at 1,400 m with views of Lakes Te Anau and Manapouri. The only Fiordland Great Walk you can walk to from town.
Distance
38.7 km
Max elevation
1,400m (Luxmore Saddle)
Duration
3–4 days
Safety classification
DifficultyMulti-day trek
GuideNo guide needed
GearNo technical gear
OfficialYes
MaintainedYes
Season
Great Walk season 27 Oct–30 Apr. In season a non-technical booked-hut walk. Off-season (1 May–26 Oct) the exposed alpine section (Luxmore to Iris Burn, 1400 m+) is snow-covered and unmarked, 9 avalanche paths, blizzard risk — alpine skills and traction/ice axe required.
Hazards
- ▲exposed alpine ridge above bushline
- ▲blizzard / wind-chill
- ▲avalanche (off-season)
- ▲snow and ice
- ▲cold
Independent booked-hut Great Walk with a high exposed alpine ridge; off-season the ridge is a snow route.