Milford Sound, New Zealand

The drive to Moke Lake from Queenstown is only 14km but it takes about 30 minutes since you're on a dirt road for a good portion of it. You'll pass Lake Kirkpatrick and lots of sheep on your way to Moke Lake, but keep driving until you get to the campground that's on the southeast end of the lake...

Follow the Wanaka-Mount Aspiring Rd. west of Lake Wanaka. The pavement turns into a dirt road shortly after you drive around the lake. You will drive for about an hour, then park at Raspberry Flats in the Matukituki Valley. From the Raspberry Flats lot, the trailhead begins at the swing bridge ab...

The West Matukituki Valley is a playground for those who love the outdoors. There are 2 sub-alpine huts, one on either side of the river, that make great backpacking destinations. French Ridge Hut (1470m) and Liverpool hut (~1140m) are both about 40km return trips from the carpark, and each can b...

Adventuring up to Ben Lomond's summit is an out-and-back day hike with views that are arguably more rewarding than some of those you get on New Zealand's Great Walks. You can take the Skyline gondola part way up if you want to shorten the climb, but I usually start at the small signposted carpark...

In the summer, Ben Lomond is an easy rated track flooded with tourists. In the winter, the hike gets a complete makeover by the soft blankets of snow, especially closer to the peak. Although the snow makes the route significantly more challenging, the views afforded are phenomenal and the trail i...

This is a great hike while you're in Queenstown to see a gorgeous view of the area if you have a few hours to kill. The hike is very well marked with lots of information boards on the area. Please make sure to dress appropriately - there can be some snow on the ground in the winter. From the carp...

If you're in Wanaka, you cannot miss this hike. If the ski area is closed for the season you can still hike there but please check in with the Treble Cone Office in Wanaka. Begin at the ski field parking area and climb among snow slops and service roads, alternatively ascend the ridge on the far ...