The Kepler Track is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, offering a mix of alpine ridges, beech forest, and serene lakeside views 🌲🏔️. This multi-day track loops around the Te Anau area, showcasing Fiordland’s dramatic landscapes in every direction.

The full track is 60 km and usually takes 3–4 days to complete, though shorter day walks are possible for those pressed for time. Highlights include sweeping views from Mount Luxmore, peaceful stretches along Lake Te Anau, and lush forest paths full of native birdlife 🌿🦜

Hikers are treated to changing scenery as they move from misty beech forests to open alpine ridges

📍 Getting there:

• Kepler Track car park - 5 km from Te Anau

• Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre - 50 min walk along the lakefront to the entrance of the track.

• Rainbow Reach car park: 12 km from Te Anau.

Shuttle buses provide a daily service to the entry and exit points on the track during the Great Walks season. A scheduled boat service also offers transport to Brod Bay.

🥾 What to bring:

• Sturdy hiking boots

• Layers for variable alpine weather, including waterproof and windproof gear

• Plenty of food and water for multi-day hiking

• Camera for breathtaking landscapes 📸

Seasonal Restrictions

During the Great Walks season (28 October 2025 – 30 April 2026)
This is the optimal time to hike the track, with more facilities available and fewer hazards. Bookings are required for huts and campsites. The track is classified as intermediate during this period.

Outside the Great Walks season (1 May 2025 – 27 October 2025)
Conditions can be cold, wet, and icy, with possible snow and shorter daylight hours. The track should only be attempted by fit, experienced, and well-equipped hikers with skills in alpine travel, river crossings, and navigation. Facilities are very limited, and additional hazards exist. Bookings are required only for Luxmore Hut. Track difficulty is rated advanced to expert.

For booking and more info - check the DOC website here

🌅 Best time to visit: Late spring to early autumn for the most stable weather. Start early in the day for sunrise views from the ridges.

⚠️ Pro tip: Book huts or campsites in advance if doing the full track. Watch for sudden weather changes on alpine sections, and pace yourself on the steeper climbs.