The Ben Lomond Track is arguably the most challenging walk in Queenstown, with an elevation gain of 1,438 m (yikes). However, you’ll see why it’s worth the effort when you reach the top. Luckily, there are two ways to experience the Ben Lomond Track, depending on how much of a challenge you're looking for!

Skyline Gondola to Ben Lomond Saddle

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Length: 7km

• Time: 3-4 hours

Take the Skyline Gondola to the top of the hill and then hike up to the Ben Lomond Saddle. While you won’t get the same view, it’s much less effort and well worth the trip up! If you choose this option, you’ll need to pay a fee for the gondola.

Ben Lomond Summit

• Difficulty: Challenging

• Length: 14km

• Time: 6-8 hours

If you’d like a more challenging option, hike up to the Ben Lomond Summit. This is an incredible and very challenging, but if you are fit, I’d recommend it as it boasts the best views in Queenstown!

The track starts at Skyline Gondola’s base on Brecon Street and follows the Tiki Trail to the top of the Skyline Luge.

Once you reach the top of the gondola, you’ll continue climbing upwards, and the track gets more challenging as you climb higher towards Ben Lomond's saddle. But you’ll see even better views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains.

The final push to the summit is the most challenging part of the whole hike. By the time you reach the top, you’ll be standing at 1748m and on a clear day, you’ll even be able to spot Mount Earnslaw/Pikirakatahi and Mount Aspiring/Tititea.

Track notes

• There is no shade, and you’re crossing an alpine environment. You’ll need to check the weather, assess your fitness level, and dress accordingly.

• There are seasonal restrictions in place, and if you’re not an experienced mountaineer, this hike is NOT recommended in winter.

• You must have a permit to fly a drone on public conservation (DOC) land.

• There are two toilets on this hike: At the top of the Skyline Gondola and 100m before the Ben Lomond saddle.