Backpacking the most Scenic Trails in New Zealand for 7-14 days
Written in March 2024, last updated on March 22, 2024.
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About this trip
This guide presents an unparalleled journey that stitches together the iconic Great Walks of Rees-Dart and Routeburn with the untamed beauty of Cascade Saddle, Earnslaw Burn, and Greenstone/Caples, creating a continuous trek across New Zealand's majestic landscapes. The variation in landscapes and trail difficulty makes this trek anything but boring. The route starts above Wanaka with the challenging Cascade Saddle Route. Right from the start, you pass through wide grassy valleys, then climb up through temperate rainforests to the alpine landscapes atop Cascade Saddle. The route passes by the Dart Glacier and then merges with the Rees-Dart Great Walk where it passes over Rees Pass. A challenging off-trail bushwhacking section gets you to Lennox Pass, which offers some of the best views of the Earnslaw Glacier and Earnslaw Burn, known for its use in the Lord of the Rings movies. An alternative, easier route gets you to Earnslaw Burn as well, without having to go off-trail. After a possible resupply in Glenorchy, the trek continues with the Routeburn Great Walk and then merges with the Greenstone/Caples trek. At McKellar Saddle, you get some stunning views of the Caples Valley, which you descend before the trek makes one more detour over Steele Creek Saddle to the Greenstone Valley with its expansive meadows.
Below, you'll find a comprehensive itinerary that guides you through each stage of the trek, followed by all the additional information you need for a safe and enjoyable journey. This includes how to get there, detailed wild camping regulations, hut accommodations, and more.