The Ben Lomond Track is a demanding climb and a full day's hike with an 1,438 m elevation gain. On clear days trampers are rewarded at the summit with spectacular panoramic views. 

Located near central Queenstown, the three access points to this track are:

• the Tiki Trail starting next to the Skyline Gondola base station at the top of Brecon Street
• from One Mile Creek Track which starts at the Fern Hill roundabout
• either the top of Skyline Access Road or the bottom of it near Lomond Crescent.

• Description

   
   

• The Ben Lomond Track rewards trampers with spectacular 360 degree views over Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountain ranges including Ka-kamu-a-Hakitekura/Cecil and Walter Peaks and Kawarau/Remarkables. In fine weather, you may even spot Mounts Pikirakatahi/Earnslaw and Tititea/Aspiring in the distance.

  The track begins among Douglas fir on Skyline Access Road or the Tiki Trail. At about 800 m altitude you leave the tree line behind to enter alpine tussocks and shrubs. Climb to the 1,326 m Ben Lomond Saddle. Beyond the saddle is Ben Lomond Station where the track becomes a marked route. From here, the terrain becomes steeper and rougher as it approaches Ben Lomond's 1,748m summit.

  Note: The section from the saddle to the summit crosses private land. Respect the landowner’s rights and keep to the formed track to avoid stock disturbance and farm hazards.

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• Getting there

   
   

• Located near central Queenstown, the three access points to this track are:

  • the Tiki Trail starting next to the Skyline Gondola base station at the top of Brecon Street
  • from One Mile Creek Track which starts at the Fern Hill roundabout
  • either the top of Skyline Access Road or the bottom of it near Lomond Crescent.
  • Ensure you leave enough daylight hours, but pack a headtorch just in case. In winter, you'll need alpine equipment.

  What to expect

  • A full day's hike with 1,438 m elevation gain. Remember, the peak is only the halfway point.

  Hazards

  • The weather changes rapidly in this region. Hypothermia is a real risk even in summer.
  • Numerous steep downhill mountain bike tracks intersect with the walking track. Due to the high speeds these are unsafe for walkers.
  • Animals have also formed tracks across the mountain. Ensure you follow the signs and orange markers to stay on the right track.

  Amenities

  • There are no toilet facilities beyond the Skyline Gondola. Plan accordingly or bring a pocket toilet, available for purchase at Whakatipu-wai-Māori / Queenstown Visitor Centre.

  Be prepared

  Ensure you take:

  • plenty of food and drinking water
  • a water/windproof jacket, a hat and gloves, sunscreen and wear warm, layered clothing
  • sturdy footwear such as tramping boots
  • head torch
  • communication device.