Kepler track new zealand

Kepler Track is a 60 km (37.3 miles) long, 4-day, multi-day hike in Fiordland National Park, New Zealand. It's one of the most popular and iconic hikes in the country. Here's an overview:

Route: The Kepler Track is a loop track that starts and ends at the same point, Lake Te Anau. The track takes you through a variety of landscapes, including beech forests, mountainous terrain, and alpine meadows.

Day 1: The track begins at the Lake Te Anau Control Gates and follows the lake's shoreline to Brod Bay. You'll then climb up to the Murchison Mountains and overnight at the Iris Burn Hut.

Day 2: From Iris Burn Hut, you'll continue to climb up to the alpine zone and reach the highest point on the track, the Key Summit. The views from the summit are breathtaking, with the surrounding mountains and valleys stretching out as far as the eye can see. You'll then descend to the Luxmore Hut.

Day 3: On the third day, you'll continue to descend to the Lake Marion area, where you'll overnight at the Lake Marion Hut.

Day 4: The final day of the track takes you back to Lake Te Anau, following the lake's shoreline and then the river back to the starting point.

Accommodation: The Kepler Track has three huts along the way, which offer basic accommodation and cooking facilities. You'll need to book your huts in advance, especially during peak season.

Difficulty: The Kepler Track is considered a moderate to challenging hike, with steep climbs and uneven terrain. You'll need to be reasonably fit and prepared for variable weather conditions.

Best time to hike: The best time to hike the Kepler Track is during the summer months (December to February), when the weather is generally mild and sunny. However, the track is open year-round, and the winter months can be a great time to see the track in a more rugged and peaceful state.

Permits and fees: You'll need to purchase a permit and pay a fee to hike the Kepler Track. The permit includes access to the huts and cooking facilities.

Responsible hiking: The Kepler Track is a fragile and sensitive environment, and it's essential to practice responsible hiking techniques to minimize your impact on the track and the surrounding ecosystem. This includes staying on the track, not littering, and respecting any closures or restrictions.

Overall, the Kepler Track is an incredible hiking experience that offers stunning scenery, challenging terrain, and a sense of adventure. If you're planning to hike the Kepler Track, make sure to prepare thoroughly and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.