The smooth track heads uphill via a series of moderate switchbacks. There also begins Routeburn Track, but after you pass beech forest Routeburn and Key Summit tracks will split. Ascend through lush forest and into a unique alpine herb field offering panoramic views, this walk offers an incredible day out in the heart of New Zealand’s Southern Alps. The track up to Key Summit is the most popular substantial day-walk in Fiordland, and justifiably so. Biodiversity inventory and monitoring toolbox, Intermediate: Great Walk/Easier tramping track, Te Rua-o-te-moko / Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre. Key Summit Track on the Routeburn Track By Leonie Freeman in collaboration with Department of Conservation Enjoy panoramic views over Fiordland mountains and alpine lakes as well as native vegetation and birdlife on this fantastic, easy half-day walk on … Key Summit is an outstanding easy excursion from the Milford Road or a quick side-trip from the Routeburn Track. When we first arrived it was a total whiteout, and we headed back down, only to see the clouds start to break up under a strong wind, so we turned around and headed back up and finally got decent views. This hiking trail, part of which is on the Routeburn Track, has it all, including panoramic mountain views, alpine ponds, pristine forest and small waterfalls. However there is a pit toilet. The first part of the walk follows the Routeburn Track, and a sign marks the. Walkers then head gradually downhill through silver beech forest to the divide on Milford Road. This walk offers spectacular views of Fiordland National Park. 3-3.5hrs/3.4km return-easy hike of Key Summit Track is well-maintained and it’s constant uphill walk thus it’s suitable for of all ages. Until this diversion, and for a short time after, the trail is a gently sloping uphill walk under a canopy of trees. In 1863, Government employed prospector Patrick Quirk Caples, travelled up from the Dart Valley along a route roughly following today’s track. The Key Summit Track is located on the the drive to Milford Sound from Te Anau or Queenstown. Key Summit Track: Great hike, fantastic views - See 44 traveler reviews, 54 candid photos, and great deals for Milford, New Zealand, at Tripadvisor. Deg Cel, yet knowing we will sweat when sun’s out to play. This walk begins at The Divide, about 85 km along the Milford Road from Te Anau. The content on this page was created by Routeburn Track, Key Summit Guided Walk - Trips & Tramps. Key Summit – Lake Marian Lookout Loop from Routeburn Track is an intermediate Hiking Tour. turn off to Key Summit. more, Discover Milford Sound Information Centre & Cafe, Would you recommend this place or activity to a friend looking for an, Is this a must-do if you are traveling with a, Is this a romantic place or activity that you would suggest for, Is this a place or activity you would suggest for, Are the prices for this place or activity. This website helps visitors connect with providers of great New Zealand tourism experiences. Help us improve the DOC website on mobile in less than 5 min. Key Summit Track: 5/5 really - See 44 traveller reviews, 54 candid photos, and great deals for Milford, New Zealand, at Tripadvisor. The half day trek within Fiordland National Park was challenging enough for us that we used our hiking sticks, and we were rewarded with spectacular views. The path itself is well-maintained and has a definite but manageable and steady uphill rise. There are signs during your drive to Milford Sound so you shouldn’t be … The route meanders on the high summit ridge, past beautiful tarns and with many outstanding viewpoints. On the way here you will pass Mirror Lakes and Cascade Creek, which are lovely easy stops right next to the highway, or, do as we did, and head a bit further down the road to Milford then take the Hollyford Track turn off for the short walk across the swing bridge to the falls, 10 along the Marian Lake Track. From here it is a 20 minute climb to Key Summit, with panoramic views over the Humboldt and Darran Mountains. Key Summit is an outstanding easy excursion from the Milford Road or a quick side-trip from the Routeburn Track. Key Summit Track Description The first part of the walk was in the bush, under a beautiful canopy of trees, ferns, and with the small waterfalls tumbling along the sides of banks you’re walking alongside. 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