Milford Track Day Walk & Kepler Tracks: A 3-Day Fiordland Adventure

Milford & Kepler Tracks: A 3-Day Fiordland Adventure
Dates: 7–10 March 2025
Location: Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Fiordland National Park, combining the breathtaking beauty of a Milford Track day walk with the exhilarating challenge of completing the Kepler Track in just two days. This event is perfect for hikers seeking adventure, camaraderie, and awe-inspiring natural wonders.

TRIP OVERVIEW

We’ll start on 7 March by traveling to the picturesque town of Te Anau, our base for this epic journey. From there, we’ll immerse ourselves in the pristine wilderness of Fiordland:

Hiking Day 1: A stunning day walk along the world-famous Milford Track, offering waterfalls, emerald rainforests, and towering peaks.

Hiking Days 2 and 3: A two-day trek on the iconic Kepler Track, camping under the stars mid-way and soaking in dramatic alpine views and lush valleys.

Day 2: Walk from the Kepler Track carpark to Irish Burn Hut/Campsite. Distance 28.4 km, total ascent 950m, walking time 10 hours.

Day 3: Relatively easy day compared to Day 2. Walk from Irish Burn Hut/Campsite to the end of the track. Distance 31.7, walking time 8 hours.

ITINERARY

Friday, 7 March 2025: Travel to Te Anau

Afternoon: Depart Auckland and fly to Queenstown.
Evening: Enjoy a scenic drive to Te Anau (approximately 2 hours) and settle into the Te Anau Lakefront Backpackers or another affordable accommodation option.

Saturday, 8 March 2025: Milford Track Day Walk

Morning: Take a boat ride from Te Anau Downs to Glade Wharf, the starting point of the Milford Track.
Day: Walk the stunning first section of the track, immersing yourself in lush rainforests and riverside trails (10–11 km return). Enjoy panoramic views and the serenity of this iconic trail.
Evening: Return to Te Anau for a well-earned rest and prepare for the Kepler Track adventure.

Sunday, 9 March 2025: Kepler Track – Day 1

Morning: Begin the Kepler Track from Te Anau and ascend through native forests to the alpine section. Expect spectacular views of Fiordland’s peaks and lakes.
Afternoon: Continue the trail to Irish Burn Hut/Campsite. Please note that we'll need to camp because no bunks are available in the hut.

Monday, 10 March 2025: Kepler Track – Day 2

Morning: Pack up camp and descend through lush valleys, passing cascading waterfalls and vibrant birdlife.
Afternoon: Complete the Kepler Track and return to Te Anau. We'll celebrate our achievement before departing for Queenstown.
Evening: Sleep in Queenstown.

11 March: Fly back to Auckland, bringing home incredible memories of Fiordland.

ACCOMMODATION

Te Anau: Te Anau Lakefront Backpackers or similar affordable lodging.
Kepler Track: Camping on 9 March at Irish Burn Campsite ($25).

TRANSPORTATION

Flights: Auckland–Queenstown return.
Transfers: Organized transport between Queenstown, Te Anau, and trailheads.
Boat Transfers: Te Anau Downs to Glade Wharf (Milford Track).

WHAT TO BRING

Essentials:

Sturdy backpack with rain cover
Camping gear (tent, sleeping bag, cooking equipment)
Waterproof hiking boots and jacket
Layered clothing for varying conditions
Food for 3 days (including camping meals)
Reusable water bottle
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
Insect repellent

Optional:

Hiking poles
Lightweight camp chair
Camera to capture the stunning scenery

IMPORTANT NOTES

Fitness Level: Moderate to high. Hikes involve long distances and some steep sections.
Bookings: Early confirmation required for flights, camping permits, and boat transfers.
Weather: Fiordland weather is unpredictable; be prepared for rain and cooler temperatures.

A donation is expected to help cover the Meetup and equipment costs.