Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track: The Complete Guide

Catch a sunrise from the loop track above Okaka Lodge, Hump Ridge Track | Janet Oldham

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Trip Grading: Moderate | Duration: 3 days | Length: 61km loop

Back in 2019, the Department Of Conservation (DOC) announced that the Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track would become a Great Walk of New Zealand - and finally, it's official in October 2024!

Also known as the 'Stairway to Heaven', this article will provide everything you need to know about this South Island walking track so you can experience it before the rest of the world finds out about it.

Located in the Fiordland National Park, the iconic Hump Ridge Track is the perfect combination of spectacular wilderness and World Heritage landscapes from sub-alpine wilderness to coastal terraces.

The Hump Ridge walking track is a 61km loop walked over 3 days. As you progress along the track, you'll notice the landscape drastically transforms from crossing several swing bridges, passing through native forest canopies, to standing at the base of the tors at Stag Point where you'll be welcomed with panoramic views over Te Waewae Bay and the chance to spot rare Hector's dolphins.

Facts about the Hump Ridge walking track:

-   Length: 61km loop track
-   Duration: walked over 3 days
-   Trip Grading: Moderate
-   Elevation: 918 metres
-   Located in the Fiordland National Park, South Island
-   Popular season: November - March

Hump Ridge Trail Map

Hump Ridge 3-Day Walking Guide:

-   Day 1: Rarakau to Okaka Lodge - 21km (7 - 9 hours)
-   Day 2: Okaka Lodge to Port Craig Lodge - 21km (7 - 9 hours
-   Day 3: Port Craig Lodge to Rarakau trailhead - 20 km (5 - 7 hours)
We include transfers to and from Tuatapere as well as transfers to Queenstown, Invercargill and Te Anau.

Accommodation

There are two backcountry lodges that are available on the walking track, the Okaka Lodge and the Port Craig Lodge.

The Okaka Lodge is nestled in the mountains which offers an incredible 180-degree view of the valley below. The bedrooms are spacious and comfortable with two options; bunk rooms or simply upgrade to a private double room if available. You'll be able to enjoy a hot shower and a cozy bed to unwind for the night.

The Post Craig Lodge was an old schoolhouse and is now a DOC lodge. Located on the second night of the walk, the walls of the building are from an old boiler house with relics of a bygone era strewn around the area.

Lodge Facilities

Bunk rooms and private double rooms
Heated lounge and dining area
Hot showers
Flushable toilets
Kitchen with basic cookware and utensils
Lighting
Lodge bar and shop

Best Season to hike the Hump Ridge Track

Although the southern Fiordland is spectacular every month of the year, the best season to tramp the Hump Ridge track is Summer with the most popular months being between November - March. Don't forget the bring your rain and windproof jacket and thermal clothing as the weather can be unpredictable.

Great Walks of New Zealand offers walkers a variety of ways to enjoy the track:
- Completely supported Guided Tour with a knowledgeable local guide.
- Self-guided so you can enjoy the scenery and walk the track at your own pace.

>> View our Hump Ridge Guided Explorer Walk here.

>> View our Hump Ridge Self-Guided Hike here.

Standing on top of the world - or close enough to - Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track | Shane Boocock

Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track - Stairway to Heaven

Join travel editor, writer, global tour guide and all around nice guy, Shane Boocock, on his journey on the Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track and find out what it's like to walk one of Southland's most iconic tracks.

Goblin Forest, Paparoa Track | Jase Blair (Tourism New Zealand)

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