Gertrude Saddle Track
An epic alpine hike in Fiordland National Park, offering challenging scrambles and breathtaking panoramic views of rugged peaks and valleys.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best light and clearer skies
Gertrude Saddle Track
Best Time
Best light and clearer skies
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An epic alpine hike in Fiordland National Park, offering challenging scrambles and breathtaking panoramic views of rugged peaks and valleys.
"The most under the radar hike in New Zealand and the best bang for your buck!"
Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Essential for navigating rocky and potentially slippery terrain. :athletic_shoe:
Check Weather Forecast
Fiordland weather is unpredictable; be prepared for rain, wind, and sun. :cloud:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gertrude Saddle Views
The Saddle
Panoramic vistas of Fiordland's dramatic peaks and valleys, with glimpses of Milford Sound on clear days.
Alpine Lakes
Along the track
Serene alpine lakes reflecting the rugged mountain scenery, offering moments of tranquility amidst the challenge.
Steep Scrambles
Upper sections of the track
Exhilarating rocky sections, some with wire ropes, providing a thrilling scramble for experienced hikers.
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Planning Your Visit
Prepare for an Alpine Challenge
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Essential for navigating rocky and potentially slippery terrain. :athletic_shoe: 
Check Weather Forecast
Fiordland weather is unpredictable; be prepared for rain, wind, and sun. :cloud:
Bring Layers
Temperatures can drop quickly at higher altitudes. :shirt:
Allow Ample Time
This is a challenging hike; allocate a full day. :clock:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Essential for navigating rocky and potentially slippery terrain. :athletic_shoe:
Check Weather Forecast
Fiordland weather is unpredictable; be prepared for rain, wind, and sun. :cloud:
Bring Layers
Temperatures can drop quickly at higher altitudes. :shirt:
Allow Ample Time
This is a challenging hike; allocate a full day. :clock:
Pack Snacks & Water
No facilities on the track; stay hydrated and fueled. :water_wave:
Orange DOC Markers
Follow these markers for navigation; they are well-placed. :round_pushpin:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Gertrude Saddle Track is a highly rewarding, albeit challenging, alpine hike in Fiordland. Hikers rave about the absolutely stunning panoramic views from the saddle, calling it one of the best hikes in New Zealand. However, it's crucial to be prepared for steep, rocky terrain and unpredictable weather, which can make the hike difficult and potentially hazardous.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Gertrude Saddle Track starts from the Gertrude Valley Carpark, located off the Milford Road (State Highway 94) in Fiordland National Park. It's approximately a 3.5-hour drive from Queenstown or about 1.5 hours from Te Anau. The drive itself is scenic, passing through stunning Fiordland landscapes.
The Milford Road is generally open year-round, but it can be subject to closures due to snow, ice, or slips, especially during winter. Always check road conditions with the NZ Transport Agency before you travel.
While technically possible, it's a very long day. The drive from Queenstown to the trailhead is about 3.5 hours each way, plus the hike itself. Many visitors opt to stay in Te Anau or Milford Sound to break up the journey and fully enjoy the experience.
There are no regular public shuttle services directly to the Gertrude Saddle Track trailhead. Most visitors travel by private vehicle or as part of a guided tour.
The drive along Milford Road is incredibly scenic, winding through ancient rainforests and past dramatic mountain scenery. Allow extra time for photo stops at viewpoints like Mirror Lakes and the Homer Tunnel.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Gertrude Saddle Track is a free public hiking trail managed by the Department of Conservation (DOC). There are no entry fees or tickets required to access the track.
The track is open 24/7, but it is only recommended for hiking during daylight hours and in safe weather conditions. It's crucial to start early and finish before dark.
No booking is required for the Gertrude Saddle Track. It's a walk-in trail, and you can start your hike anytime during daylight hours.
For most day hikes like Gertrude Saddle, no special permits are needed. However, for overnight stays in backcountry huts or camping in designated areas, permits are usually required and should be booked in advance through the DOC.
The most reliable way to check the current status and any alerts for the Gertrude Saddle Track is to visit the Department of Conservation (DOC) website for Fiordland National Park.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Gertrude Saddle Track is rated as an advanced or expert hike. It involves steep ascents, rocky terrain, scree slopes, and some sections with wire ropes for assistance. It requires good fitness and a head for heights.
The track is approximately 8.4 km (5.2 miles) return, with a significant elevation gain. The exact elevation gain varies depending on the starting point and the saddle itself, but it's a substantial climb.
Most hikers take between 4 to 8 hours to complete the Gertrude Saddle Track, depending on their fitness level, the conditions, and how much time they spend enjoying the views at the saddle.
You'll experience dramatic alpine landscapes, including towering granite peaks, glacial valleys, pristine alpine lakes, and on clear days, breathtaking views towards Milford Sound.
The Gertrude Valley Carpark typically has basic facilities such as toilets. There are no shops, cafes, or water refill stations along the track itself.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire track offers incredible photo opportunities, from the valley floor with its dramatic mountains to the alpine lakes and the panoramic views from the saddle itself. The reflections in the lakes and the vastness of the landscape are particularly photogenic.
Early morning or late afternoon light can be spectacular, casting long shadows and highlighting the textures of the mountains. However, clear midday conditions also offer stunning, sharp views. Be prepared for rapidly changing light due to Fiordland's weather.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating mountain peaks or distant features. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance sky and water colors. A sturdy tripod can be beneficial for low-light conditions or capturing reflections.
On very clear days, you can indeed see Milford Sound in the distance from the Gertrude Saddle. This offers a unique perspective, but it's not guaranteed.
Yes, always prioritize safety. Don't venture off-track for a photo, especially near steep drop-offs. Be mindful of your footing, especially on wet or icy surfaces. Keep your camera secure and protected from the elements.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families seeking Fiordland adventures, consider the more accessible walks around Milford Sound, such as the Milford Sound Foreshore Walk or the Mirror Lakes walk. These offer stunning scenery without the extreme difficulty. If your children are older and experienced hikers, and you are confident in their abilities and your own supervision, the lower sections of the Gertrude Valley might be manageable, but the saddle itself is best left for more experienced trekkers.
⛰️ Experienced Hikers & Adventurers
The payoff is immense: unparalleled views of Fiordland's dramatic peaks and a sense of accomplishment that comes with conquering a demanding trail. Be prepared for variable weather, and ensure you have the right gear, including sturdy hiking boots, waterproofs, and layers. The track is best tackled on a clear, dry day to maximize safety and enjoyment.
+1 For those who love a good scramble and breathtaking alpine scenery, this track delivers an unforgettable experience. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Aim for early morning or late afternoon light to capture the best mood and detail. The saddle provides a stunning vantage point for panoramic shots, and on clear days, you might even capture Milford Sound in the distance.
Remember to pack your camera securely and protect it from the elements, as Fiordland weather can be unpredictable. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Gertrude Saddle Track
The most demanding sections involve scrambling over large boulders and navigating steep rock faces. In some of these steeper parts, wire ropes are installed to assist climbers, offering a sense of security and making the ascent more manageable for those with a good head for heights.
It's crucial to have sturdy hiking boots with good grip for these sections, as they can be slippery, especially after rain or if there's lingering ice. Reaching the saddle offers a profound sense of accomplishment. The panoramic views are truly breathtaking, showcasing the raw, untamed beauty of Fiordland National Park. On a clear day, the distant glint of Milford Sound is a spectacular bonus.
+1 Remember that Fiordland's weather is notoriously fickle, so even on a seemingly clear day, conditions can change rapidly. Always be prepared for wind, rain, and cooler temperatures at altitude. Fiordland's Alpine Majesty Beyond Milford Sound
+1Many visitors flock to Fiordland for the iconic boat cruises on Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound, and these are indeed spectacular.
Exploring these less-trafficked trails means you can often find moments of solitude and a more intimate connection with nature. The sheer scale of the mountains, the clarity of the alpine lakes, and the vibrant green of the native bush create an unforgettable experience.
+1 It's a reminder that Fiordland's beauty extends far beyond its famous fjords, offering a true adventure for those willing to explore its heights. 
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