Take some time to take it all in because it is one special feeling to be on top of Queenstown and see these views for yourself. Beached As is narrow and flows well for the adrenaline seeking mountain biker but sticking to the Ben Lomond walking track is a much nicer experience for hikers. As part of this we joined the initiative to combat the spread of the invasive wildings (yes, just like the wildings in Game of Thrones … except they’re trees, not people) and have a family plot above the gondola. For about half an hour your views are limited to the surrounding hills. A communication device in case you need assistance. From the top stunning 360 degrees view, amazing hike!! Below are some options at different price points to take a look at that are mostly within walking distance of town center: 3. Overview Ben Lomond is a prominent peak just outside of Queenstown. Another great thing about the Ben Lomond trail is you don’t have to hike the entire way to the summit to get amazing views and instead you can choose to only hike to the saddle. 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. Hiking Ben Lomond taking the gondola. View 1 - Beginning the walk. From the top of the gondola, it takes 4 to 5 hours and from Queenstown, it takes 6 to 7 hours to complete the trail. Hiking Ben Lomond: the gondola route (2-3 hours return) There are two main ways to tackle this peak. If you are tired you can use the gondola to go down. Some of the guides currently up on the site include: And Dont Forget to Check Out the 10 Day New Zealand North Island Itinerary, Your email address will not be published. amzn_assoc_region = "US"; The track begins among Douglas fir on Skyline Access Road or the Tiki Trail. amzn_assoc_search_bar = "false"; Path of Ben Lomond Track. - See 686 traveler reviews, 489 candid photos, and great deals for Queenstown, New Zealand, at Tripadvisor. 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 on Lomond Crescent and take the 4-WD track up the first stretch. As part of this we joined the initiative to combat the spread of the invasive wildings (yes, just like the wildings in Game of Thrones … except they’re trees, not people) and have a family plot above the gondola. So be prepared for a big day out, and if you have any doubts about your ability to complete the hike it could be worth taking the Skyline Gondola to cut a significant portion of climbing (and descending) out of your journey. amzn_assoc_placement = "adunit0"; Gondola Open Hours: Tap here for Skyline Queenstown Gondola open hoursGondola Prices: Tap here for Skyline Queenstown Gondola prices. 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. See from the video but it was a good hike...you can skip the first part by taking the gondola … But despite its easy access and location to central Queenstown, the climb up has many challenges. It's a steep trek, so take suitable walking shoes. The time will fly by while you’re resting, the Ben Lomond Saddle is the first time on the hike you’ll get to see the awe-inspiring peaks of Mt Aspiring National Park. It’s practically in the city, but still sufficiently challenging and offers a great scenic view of the area from Lake Wakatipu, Arthur’s Point and Queenstown.It doesn’t take much effort to get on this hike – the trailhead starts just 10 minutes walk from Queenstown city center. Ben Lomond track is a challenging track with a 1438m elevation gain of the walk. It will take you about 2 hours to hike to the saddle and then another 1 or 2 (of steeper and rougher track) to the summit. It is a popular and easy to follow track. Ben Lomond Track: Awesome hike! View 3 - Panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables. Ben Lomond Track (Hard Hike Option) The entire hike to the Ben Lomond Summit is 6-8 hours (return) over a distance of 9.5km (5.9miles). As you are making the climb you will consistently see the top of Ben Lomond the entire time. Ben Lomond Track, Queenstown: Address, Phone Number, Ben Lomond Track Reviews: 5/5. Distance: 11 km return Duration: 3-4 hr to Ben Lomond Saddle, 6-8 hr to Ben Lomond Summit. As the path meanders its way up and around to the saddle of the Ben Lomond track you start to believe that surely the dauntingly advertised 6 hours surely cannot … This guide will go into detail regarding what to expect on the track and how to better prepare yourself to conquer the peak. Located at 1,748m over Queenstown and the Lake Wakatipu, the Ben Lomond summit is a bucket-list day hike for both hikers and adventure-seekers alike. While it looks like the peak is just right in front of you, it is actually another hour to get up there. Once at the top of the gondola, you can make the decision how you would like to get back into Queenstown (Gondola or Tiki Trail / Lomond Crescent). Follow the signs to the Ben Lomond Saddle, and eventually you’ll meet another trail which comes from the Skyline Gondola. Feel free to write in below with any questions or comments and check out some other New Zealand itineraries and guides up on the site. But seriously, if your planning on doing the entire Ben Lomond, it’s quite the treat to be able to shave off an hour off your hike! The Ben Lomond Saddle is also a critical point on the hike to reassess the weather conditions, which could have easily changed in the time its taken to journey here. Nowadays, Ben Lomond is one of the places where my family goes to remember my grandparents. Climb to the 1,326 m Ben Lomond Saddle. Shortly after you begin the Ben Lomond track, you will exit the forest and be welcomed to vast views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu down below. Hike to the Ben Lomond SADDLE. Starting & Ending Point: EITHER 1) From Queenstown OR 2) Top of Queenstown Gondola (more on those options soon), Length: 11 KM / 6.8 Miles from Top of Gondola  • 14 KM / 8.7 Miles from Queenstown, Elevation Gain: 1,000 Meters / 3,280 Feet from Top of Gondola • 1,438 Meters / 4,718 Feet from Queenstown, Summit Elevation: 1,748 Meters / 5,735 Feet (Saddle Elevation: 1,326 Meters / 4,350 Feet), Time: 4-6 Hours from Top of Gondola / 6-8 Hours from Queenstown (round trip), Track: Dirt / Technical Rock for final summit push, Difficulty: Hard (the official NZ DOC website lists it as easy – not sure how they came up with that one!!). Have fun out there! Once you have soaked in the views, retrace your steps on the way back. If you begin your hike in the Queenstown CBD, you’ll gain a total of 1,438-metres of elevation in just 5.5-kilometres (11-kilometres return). Otherwise, you’ll be walking up the Tiki Trail, which starts next to the gondola. While it is an accomplishment within itself to complete the trek to the top of Ben Lomond Peak, it will not be the same experience if the views are not out there to see. Although not a technically difficult climb the mountain looks quite rugged as many other peaks in the Southern Alps.This mountain can be climbed beginning from the town of Queenstown or if you'd like a shorter and easier day you can ride the Skyline Gondola up and down to shorten your day. I hope this guide can get you going in the right direction and on top of that peak in no time. It includes everything I bring along on day hikes, and it will have you better prepared when taking part of trails all over New Zealand. The views are pretty great and the path is well-kept. Well, by now you should be all good to go to conquer the Ben Lomond track on your own. amzn_assoc_ad_type = "smart"; Hiking Ben Lomond taking the gondola. On Lomond Crescent you’ll find the start of the Skyline Access Road. The trail is actually longer if you start in town. Read on to discover what else Queenstown has in store for you: Discover the best rainy day acitivities in Queenstown. Even in the height of summer the elevation and exposure to cold winds can lower the temperature drastically, so be prepared to throw on a warm layer and a windproof jacket. View 4 - Looking up to Ben Lomond Tongariro Alpine Crossing on the North Island, 10 Day New Zealand North Island Itinerary, A Helpful Okere Falls Walk Guide | The 7 Meter Plunge, Kuirau Park in Rotorua | Mud Pools, Lakes, & Geothermal Activity. On our way back down we met an American soldier (on vacation! Book your tickets online for Ben Lomond Track, Queenstown: See 686 reviews, articles, and 489 photos of Ben Lomond Track, ranked No.3 on Tripadvisor among 80 attractions in Queenstown. Luge, Kiwi Birdlife Park, Time Tripper, Jet Boats and Go-Karts. Getting to the Ben Lomond Saddle takes much less time than the summit; in fact, if you take the gondola up and down it’s only a 3-hour return hike to the saddle. The track makes its way above the Skyline, going much higher up but overlooking Lake Wakatipu from a similar angle. Experience magnificent lake and mountain views as you climb up the saddle. The Ben Lomond Saddle walk is a 3 - 4 hour walk that can be accessed from the top of the gondola station. Although not a technically difficult climb the mountain looks quite rugged as many other peaks in the Southern Alps.This mountain can be climbed beginning from the town of Queenstown or if you'd like a shorter and easier day you can ride the Skyline Gondola up and down to shorten your day. A challenging hike to beautiful vistas above Queenstown and the Lake Wakatipu basin, Ben Lomond is a hike you don't want to miss when you come to New Zealand. On our way back down we met an American soldier (on vacation! So read on to discover 3 options for starting points on the hike, a map, what to pack and how to prepare. Ben Lomond track is a challenging track with a 1438m elevation gain of the walk. This hike is more difficult and you really have to plan it well so you can finish it in daylight. It should also take about 45 minutes to get to the meet up with the Ben Lomond track so if you are trying to start your hike from Queenstown, either one of these options should work well for you. Overview Ben Lomond is a prominent peak just outside of Queenstown. As you decide when to head out on the trail I highly recommend doing so on the clearest day possible. From the gondola complex look for the well-signed route that veers into the woods from the luge track. Hike the Skyline Access Road. Getting to the Ben Lomond Saddle takes much less time than the summit; in fact, if you take the gondola up and down it’s only a 3-hour return hike to the saddle. The Ben Lomond Track starts at the top of Skyline Gondola. The Ben Lomond track is well signed from the Skyline Gondola. For the first segment, the track begins at the Douglas fir stands via the Skyline Access Road and takes you through the alpine tussocks and shrubs. There are 3 potential starting points to the Ben Lomond Track: Ride the Skyline Gondola. • Another thing to point out here is that on top of the gondola you will find a restaurant/café if you need to take a break and there is also the famous Queenstown luge – a fun option to maybe add to the end of your day. This view comes just after passing the Skyline complex at the top of the gondola. Nowadays, Ben Lomond is one of the places where my family goes to remember my grandparents. Alternatively to starting at the base of the Queenstown Gondola, you can also start at Lomond Crescent road. When in Queenstown, the Ben Lomond hike is a “must do”. It is NOT for everyone and you need to be in good physical condition to complete the track. If you are wondering what to bring along when taking part of hikes in general take a look at the comprehensive Hiking Packing List that I put together. We hiked from the lake up Ben Lomond starting at the trail at the bottom where the gondola starts. The Skyline Access Road will lead you halfway up Bob’s Peak, where you’ll find the signposted start to the single track at a large open area knows as the ‘Midway Clearing’. A challenging hike to beautiful vistas above Queenstown and the Lake Wakatipu basin, Ben Lomond is a hike you don't want to miss when you come to New Zealand. It is a great way to have a very diverse type of hike as this part of the trail will be in the forest and the actual Ben Lomond track will be above the tree line with vast views. For the first segment, the track begins at the Douglas fir stands via the Skyline Access Road and takes you through the alpine tussocks and shrubs. 2. Well sign up and join the TripTins community to receive monthly newsletters that will recap everything you need to know to make that trip as memorable as can be. There is some free parking available at the start of the Access Road, but if you can’t find a spot there, you can park at one of the many all-day parks available in town and take the short walk to the access road via Thompson Street and Glasgow Street. Since access to the Ben Lomond track from the One Mile Creek track has been closed, you have two options to reach the Ben Lomond summit: Option 1: Tiki Trail to the Skyline Gondola to the Ben Lomond Track This option is the best if you want a full-day hike straight from town. Depending on daylight hours, time of year, and hiking level, you may want to start the hike earlier on in the day. When you reach the summit of Ben Lomond, you’ll be rewarded with majestic 360-degree views of Queenstown, the Remarkables, Mt Aspiring National Park. This is going to be helpful when it’s dark (especially if you haven’t walked any of the Tiki Trail). Even from the Gondola it remains hidden until a short steep climb through a dark, dense forest of Douglas Firs brings it into view. If you’re keen to save about an hours worth of hiking through the forest, you can take the Skyline Gondola up through the Ben Lomond Forest for about $15. You can head over the Ben Lomond weather page for the latest – there are many Ben Lomond’s on the website so follow the link for the correct one. Ben Lomond Track: Breathtaking day hike - See 680 traveler reviews, 482 candid photos, and great deals for Queenstown, New Zealand, at Tripadvisor. The Summit to Saddle downhill will be the toughest part of the descent. amzn_assoc_tracking_id = "triptins05-20"; I was skeptical of just how epic the Ben Lomond Track would be after taking in the view from the Skyline (the gondola-accessible viewing platform just above town). Below is a map that shows the three starting points followed by a quick description of them. ). Difficulty: Advanced Best time of year to go: October till April / May. If you decide for this option you will essentially be overpaying for a one way gondola ride as you would need to buy a round trip). The stunning panoramic views along the entire length of the track delight and entertain hikers the whole way. ). Skyline Gondola. Difficulty: Advanced Best time of year to go: October till April / May. Once back in town, it is time to relax those legs and start the rest and recovery process. Ben Lomond Track: We did this after the gondola - See 686 traveler reviews, 489 candid photos, and great deals for Queenstown, New Zealand, at Tripadvisor. At the bottom of the Skyline Queenstown Gondola, you will see signs pointing to the Tiki Trail. © 2017 - 2021 Skyline Enterprises Limited. Hike to the Ben Lomond SADDLE As you start the Ben Lomond Track from the gondola, the first part is through the woods and still shaded. However you get to this point, you’re above Bob’s Peak and you’re a third of the way there. This route will lead you through old Douglas Fir’s and into some of Queenstown’s most beautiful native Beech forest. Ben Lomond Track is a 8.1 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Queenstown, Otago, New Zealand that offers the chance to see wildlife and is rated as difficult. I like that it is not very difficult, and it’s … • The Skyline Queenstown Gondola opens at 9AM. You will need to watch your step and take it slow. Take the Gondola to Skyline, follow the signs to the saddle and the steep ascent on your left to the summit (1747m). As you start the Ben Lomond Track from the gondola, the first part is through the woods and still shaded. TIP: I usually use Meteoblue for my mountain weather and you are able to see cloud coverage / number of hours of sun on a day by day basis. This 10 minute journey will take you above the forest, as you enjoy some views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu down below. • If you decide to take the Tiki Trail or trail from Lomond Crescent up and down, you will not need to pay anything to take part of Ben Lomond. For about half an hour your views are limited to the surrounding hills. The Tiki Trail is a 45-minute uphill zig zagging path that takes you up the mountain and meets up with the Ben Lomond track – basically an alternate to taking the gondola up. Do you want to stay up to date and receive the latest travel iTINeraries, guides and tips to better plan your next trip around the world? The path from the top of the gondola to saddle is one of my favorites in all of New Zealand. Take the Gondola to Skyline, follow the signs to the saddle and the steep ascent on your left to the summit (1747m). Hike the Tiki Trail. View 3 - Panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables. Hilton Queenstown Resort (a bit further out of town). Ben Lomond Saddle Walk. It is a popular and easy to follow track. Also note that this is a full day’s hike and the weather conditions can change rapidly, so be prepared with: The Ben Lomond Track is recommended to be completed during the summer season. The reward for 6-8 hours of walking (return) is a spectacular panoramic view of the Remarkables mountain range, Lake Wakatipu and the bustling town below. We hiked from the lake up Ben Lomond starting at the trail at the bottom where the gondola starts. Skyline Gondola. To your left will be those Lake Wakatipu views and to your right will be these incredible ever expanding mountain views (hopefully they can distract you a bit from what you are putting your body through). At about 800 m altitude you leave the tree line behind to enter alpine tussocks and shrubs. It’s the best day hike in Queenstown (and one of the best in New Zealand) and I highly recommend doing at least some of it. The first part of the hike that leaves from the top of the gondola lulls you into a false sense of security. Another great thing about the Ben Lomond trail is you don’t have to hike the entire way to the summit to get amazing views and instead you can choose to only hike to the saddle. The hike up Ben Lomond mountain is one of Queenstown’s best day hikes. But for the lazy or time poor tourist you can get a 450 metre leg up by taking the Gondola … Ben Lomond from Gondola area The peak rises to 1,748 m (5,735 ft) and is reached by the purist up a steep zig zag track. The list includes several different essentials such as: This was one hike I particularly remember sweating and be very hot on the way up and then when I reached the top it was frigid as the wind picked up and I felt that drop in temperature. The stunning panoramic views along the entire length of the track delight and entertain hikers the whole way. Have fun out there and safe travels! Ben Lomond Hike Start Whether you ride the Skyline Gondola or climb up the Tiki Trail, you’ll want to follow the signs through the luge track to the official start. And soon enough the nice dirt path will end and you will start climbing your way up the technical rocks. However, once you are back on the saddle, it should get much easier from there. Ben Lomond mountain is a very popular hike in Queenstown, due to its accessibility and beautiful views. Ben Lomond Track: Awesome Day Hike - Amazing Views - See 685 traveler reviews, 489 candid photos, and great deals for Queenstown, New Zealand, at Tripadvisor. Make sure you aren’t put off by the steep start to the hike, hang in there, it gets easier. Climbing Ben Lomond in Queenstown Approaching Ben Lomond. Mentioned earlier you can either start the trail in Queenstown (either the base of the Queenstown Gondola or on Lomond Crescent road), or you can make your way to the top of the Queenstown Gondola and begin the trail up Ben Lomond from there. View 4 - Looking up to Ben Lomond Some highlights from this video include: 00:01 The gondola to Bob's Peak below Ben Lomond Then once you walk out of the woods you get out in the open and this is where the track starts to go up through grassland. Ben Lomond Saddle Walk. There are 3 potential starting points to the Ben Lomond Track: From the bottom terminal of Skyline Queenstown, taking a scenic Gondola ride to the top of Bob’s Peak will save you (and your knees) up to one hour of hiking. Ben Lomond Track: Ben Lomond Track - See 686 traveller reviews, 489 candid photos, and great deals for Queenstown, New Zealand, at Tripadvisor. Ben Lomond. Now do not get me wrong – the Ben Lomond hike is NO JOKE, but believe me, the climb is WELL WORTH the effort. Although Ben Lomond can be done from Queenstown proper, a start from the top of the Skyline Gondola will save an hour of work (not to mention around 400 metres of vertical climb). A challenging, but incredibly rewarding hike up the Ben Lomond summit. Yes, we took the gondola up and down, lazy bums! From thrill-seeking, to relaxation and mind games - there's an activity to suit everyone - at any time of the year. I wanted to highlight some important facts to know before heading off for this hike. 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