×
Kepler Track

New Zealand🇳🇿 | hikesKepler Trackalpine ridges, beech forest, expansive tussock, circular route | things to do and best time to go

Explore Aoraki - Mount Cook Village WalksExplore Milford Track

Backpacking in Kepler Track
👍 Recommendedhike ranked #5
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated May 30, 2026

Your first real Kepler decision hits before you even lace your boots: do you commit to the full 60 km loop or cherry-pick the alpine section as a long day or overnight? That choice matters, because the payoff ridge above Luxmore Hut is where Kepler really swings, and you don’t want to burn out before you get there. The track sits just outside Te Anau on the South Island, in Fiordland National Park, so access is almost suspiciously easy for how wild it feels—buses, shuttles, even a walk from town if you’re stubborn. It’s a well-graded, Great Walk-style trail: big climbs, but no technical drama, just steady grind. Compared with Milford or Routeburn, Kepler feels less boxed-in by valleys and more like a long, exposed highline—huge lake views, moody cloud, and enough distance that your legs absolutely earn every panorama.

Discover everything you want to know in the 📖 New Zealand Travel Guide.
Best time to go: September - May
Duration: 3 to 4 days
Distance: 60 kilometers
Total ascent: 1,200 meters


Get your New Zealand guide
113 ranked highlights, routes & tips, works offline (412 pages)
Loading the map 🌍
CLICK TO FILTER
cities
towns
villages
landmarks
national parks
hikes
beaches
attractions
festivals
regions
SHOW COUNTRY’S BESTSHOW ALL
💡 Help me find the best route

✨ Why go?
Ranked #5 hike in New ZealandReasons people choose to hike the here

The Kepler Track in New Zealand is a magnet for backpackers, and for good reason. First off, the scenery-to-effort ratio is off the charts. You’ll trek through lush forests, scale ridges with jaw-dropping views of Lake Te Anau, and navigate alpine meadows that make every step worthwhile.

Access is a breeze thanks to public transport options from Te Anau, making it easy to jump into the adventure without a hitch. Plus, it’s a low-cost option—no pricey permits or fees, just a few bucks for the shuttle.

What really sets the Kepler apart is its flexible distances. You can tackle it in a leisurely three to four days or speed through in two, depending on your vibe. This adaptability means it fits seamlessly into a longer backpacking route, allowing you to explore more of New Zealand’s wild beauty … read more 👉
The Kepler Track in New Zealand is a magnet for backpackers, and for good reason. First off, the scenery-to-effort ratio is off the charts. You’ll trek through lush forests, scale ridges with jaw-dropping views of Lake Te Anau, and navigate alpine meadows that make every step worthwhile.

Access is a breeze thanks to public transport options from Te Anau, making it easy to jump into the adventure without a hitch. Plus, it’s a low-cost option—no pricey permits or fees, just a few bucks for the shuttle.

What really sets the Kepler apart is its flexible distances. You can tackle it in a leisurely three to four days or speed through in two, depending on your vibe. This adaptability means it fits seamlessly into a longer backpacking route, allowing you to explore more of New Zealand’s wild beauty without feeling rushed.

Every climb, every breath of fresh air, leads to that moment when you reach a summit and take in the view. That’s the real reward.
Want to include Kepler Track in your New Zealand route?
Create a personalized New Zealand itinerary that includes Kepler Track and the places that fit your trip — based on your travel style, budget, and available time. Get your route in seconds.

Generate my trip

💡 HighlightsThe experiences that define the visit

  1. Mount Luxmore summit & ridge walk — That long tussock-covered ridge above Luxmore Hut is the Kepler’s showpiece: uninterrupted alpine views that sweep from Lake Te Anau to the jagged Fiordland peaks. It’s a proper ridgewalk — exposed, sculpted by wind, and way more panoramic than your average forest trail.
  2. Lake Te Anau shoreline & Control Gates — The lakeshore section at the start/end feels dramatically different from the alpine sections: glassy reflections, wetlands and the Control Gates where Te Anau narrows into the Waiau. It’s a calm, lowland counterpoint to the high ridges, perfect for sunrise or a lazy finish.
  3. Iris Burn valley and waterfalls — After the ridge you drop into the Iris Burn: mossy beech forest, ferny gullies and a few pretty cascades. The intimacy and green, wet forest
… read more 👉
  1. Mount Luxmore summit & ridge walk — That long tussock-covered ridge above Luxmore Hut is the Kepler’s showpiece: uninterrupted alpine views that sweep from Lake Te Anau to the jagged Fiordland peaks. It’s a proper ridgewalk — exposed, sculpted by wind, and way more panoramic than your average forest trail.
  2. Lake Te Anau shoreline & Control Gates — The lakeshore section at the start/end feels dramatically different from the alpine sections: glassy reflections, wetlands and the Control Gates where Te Anau narrows into the Waiau. It’s a calm, lowland counterpoint to the high ridges, perfect for sunrise or a lazy finish.
  3. Iris Burn valley and waterfalls — After the ridge you drop into the Iris Burn: mossy beech forest, ferny gullies and a few pretty cascades. The intimacy and green, wet forest atmosphere here contrast beautifully with the exposed tussock above — two very different Fiordland moods on one track.
  4. Native birdlife and night-time kiwi calls — The Kepler runs through good native forest, so expect tui, bellbird, fantail and tomtit by day. At night you might hear Fiordland’s kiwi (tokoeka) — hearing those calls from near a hut is a proper NZ wilderness moment that many other trails don’t deliver.
  5. Luxmore Hut views, sunsets and dark skies — The huts aren’t just practical; Luxmore Hut sits where the ridge drops to the lake and offers corker sunsets and superb stargazing (very little light pollution). That ridge-top hut experience — sipping something warm while the valley goes pink — is classic Kepler and hard to beat.
Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact us.

Things to do around Kepler Track

Award Winning Milford Sound Full Day Tour & Cruise from Te Anau

Award Winning Milford Sound Full Day Tour & Cruise from Te Anau

5.0(1295) 9h 30m
✓ Free cancellation
From €163
per personViator
Premium Milford Sound Tour, Cruise & Lunch from Te Anau

Premium Milford Sound Tour, Cruise & Lunch from Te Anau

4.9(931) 7h
✓ Free cancellation
From €154
per personViator
Full-Day Milford Sound Tour with Cruise and Walks from Te Anau

Full-Day Milford Sound Tour with Cruise and Walks from Te Anau

5.0(775) 9h
✓ Free cancellation
From €160
per personViator
Jet Boat Journey through Fiordland National Park - Pure Wilderness

Jet Boat Journey through Fiordland National Park - Pure Wilderness

5.0(700) 2h
✓ Free cancellation
From €106
per personViator
Te Anau Glow Worm Caves Tour

Te Anau Glow Worm Caves Tour

4.5(1106) 2h 15m
✓ Free cancellation
From €67
per personViator
Doubtful Sound Wilderness Day Cruise from Manapouri

Doubtful Sound Wilderness Day Cruise from Manapouri

4.7(559) 7h
✓ Free cancellation
From €185
per personViator
Milford Sound Full Day Tour from Te Anau with Cruise

Milford Sound Full Day Tour from Te Anau with Cruise

5.0(372) 9h
✓ Free cancellation
From €175
per personViator
Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise from Te Anau

Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise from Te Anau

4.7(326) 9h
✓ Free cancellation
From €198
per personViator
Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise

Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise

4.8(279) 48h
From €387
per personViator
Scenic Cruise & Guided Walk on Historic Motor Yacht Lake Te Anau

Scenic Cruise & Guided Walk on Historic Motor Yacht Lake Te Anau

5.0(170) 3h
✓ Free cancellation
From €85
per personViator

Ratings based on Tripadvisor reviews. When you book through this link, you support our work at no extra cost to you.

example page 0 from our offline Travel Guide for New Zealand
example page 1 from our offline Travel Guide for New Zealand
example page 2 from our offline Travel Guide for New Zealand
example page 3 from our offline Travel Guide for New Zealand
example page 4 from our offline Travel Guide for New Zealand
example page 5 from our offline Travel Guide for New Zealand
example page 6 from our offline Travel Guide for New Zealand
example page 7 from our offline Travel Guide for New Zealand
Stop researching. Start exploring.
Discover all 113 highlights,ranked
and organized into practical routes.

Get instant access

🌤️ When to go?Seasonal considerations and timing


  • Weather: The Kepler Track’s weather swings hard. Summer (December to February) offers the driest, most stable conditions, but expect sudden rain showers. Winter (June to August) brings snow and ice, turning the trail into a technical challenge.

  • Temperature: Summer highs hit around 20-25°C (68-77°F), perfect for sweating it out without overheating. Winter temps can plunge below 0°C (32°F), demanding serious cold-weather gear and skills.

  • Daylight Hours: Long summer days stretch up to 15-16 hours, giving you extra time to push through the track’s rugged sections. Winter days shrink to 8-9 hours, forcing earlier starts and quicker finishes.

  • Crowds: Peak season floods the huts and campsites with hikers chasing the summer window. Shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) offer fewer people,
… read more 👉

  • Weather: The Kepler Track’s weather swings hard. Summer (December to February) offers the driest, most stable conditions, but expect sudden rain showers. Winter (June to August) brings snow and ice, turning the trail into a technical challenge.

  • Temperature: Summer highs hit around 20-25°C (68-77°F), perfect for sweating it out without overheating. Winter temps can plunge below 0°C (32°F), demanding serious cold-weather gear and skills.

  • Daylight Hours: Long summer days stretch up to 15-16 hours, giving you extra time to push through the track’s rugged sections. Winter days shrink to 8-9 hours, forcing earlier starts and quicker finishes.

  • Crowds: Peak season floods the huts and campsites with hikers chasing the summer window. Shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) offer fewer people, more solitude, and a quieter trail vibe.

  • Seasonal Activities: Summer lets you dive into alpine wildflowers and birdlife, while autumn paints the forest in fiery hues. Winter’s snow transforms the landscape but limits access and requires avalanche awareness.

  • Price Fluctuations: Summer rates for huts and transport spike due to demand. Booking early is essential. Off-season sees lower prices but fewer services and harsher conditions.


Pro-tip: Aim for late spring or early autumn to dodge crowds, enjoy mild weather, and catch the track’s raw beauty without the summer rush or winter freeze.


source: climatestotravel.comJANJanuary: excellent for travelingFEBFebruary: excellent for travelingMARMarch: highly recommended for travelingAPRApril: highly recommended for travelingMAYMay: good for travelingJUNJune: fair for travelingJULJuly: below average for travelingAUGAugust: below average for travelingSEPSeptember: good for travelingOCTOctober: highly recommended for travelingNOVNovember: highly recommended for travelingDECDecember: excellent for traveling
New Zealand - the Kepler Track

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutNew Zealand Travel Guide

An offline-friendly backpacking guide with optimized travel routes, ranked highlights, transport advice, and the best areas to stay.
example page 0 from our offline Travel Guide for New Zealand
example page 1 from our offline Travel Guide for New Zealand
example page 2 from our offline Travel Guide for New Zealand
example page 3 from our offline Travel Guide for New Zealand
example page 4 from our offline Travel Guide for New Zealand
example page 5 from our offline Travel Guide for New Zealand
example page 6 from our offline Travel Guide for New Zealand
example page 7 from our offline Travel Guide for New Zealand
The digital guide (412 pages) contains:
✅ 113 highlights, ranked by travel appeal
✅ Optimized 7, 14 & 21-day travel routes
✅ Cities, national parks, landmarks, beaches
✅ How to get around
✅ Offline-friendly for travel without Wi-Fi
👉 Click to see all 30+ guide features

📅 Plan smarter in minutes, not weeks
✅ Month by month travel advice
✅ Festivals & national holidays
✅ Budget expectations

🗺️ Go to the right places, skip the overrated ones
✅ Honest pros & cons of destinations
✅ Top hikes, parks & viewpoints
✅ Lesser-known places most travelers miss
✅ Clear “worth it vs skip it” guidance

🛏️ Travel smoothly without rookie mistakes
✅ Best areas to stay
✅ Transport systems explained simply
✅ Common scams & safety advice
✅ SIM cards, money & practical tips

🌍 Understand the country, not just visit it
✅ Culture & traditions
✅ Local customs
✅ Festivals worth planning around
✅ Traveler-friendly historical context
✅ Insights that make places more meaningful

📱 Built for real travel conditions
✅ Fully downloadable PDF
✅ Works completely offline
✅ Optimized for phone use
✅ Useful in remote areas & buses
✅ Everything in one place
Save weeks of stressful planning
Get instant access to your full guide. 30‑day money-back guarantee.


By proceeding you agree to our terms.
Sent to your inbox immediately after payment • 100% Secure Checkout
Best Backpacking Travel Advisor 2025 tourism awardBest Backpacking
Travel Advisor
2025
What others say about Take Your Backpack Guides:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Fantastic, amazing amount of information!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My goodness this is amazing, it's what I've been looking for hats off too you!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I think this is absolutely BRILLIANT
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Very complete and informative. It's still missing places, but I gotta to commend you
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is truly amazing, thank you, can't wait to explore it with my kids!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Awesome resource, thank you!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is amazing! Can't wait to explore the ones I haven't seen
⭐⭐⭐⭐
I love this! Well done, great idea.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thanks for taking the time to make this gem!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This might be the best website I've ever seen.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Congratulations, and thank you so much for your work; it's incredibly valuable.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
In all seriousness I think you did a great job pointing out the important spots
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
10/10 very good
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
As someone who's only just starting to visit regularly this is awesome, thank you.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you very much! I'm going to visit my dad, it's going to be very useful!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is really cool! We'll be travelling for the first time and this definitely come in handy.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
You are now our minister of culture, congratulations 👨‍💼
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Just wanted to tell you that this is a pearl! Going to follow your recommendations.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is so cool. I'll definitely be using the resource for my travels soon.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is very impressive! Good work.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is an amazing and informative site. Very well done!

🛏️ Where to stay?Choosing the right base

If you enjoy meeting fellow travelers, consider choosing hostels with high ratings for atmosphere. On the other hand, if you prefer having your own space, a hotel might be a better option.

Best hostels in New Zealand


Best quality hotels in New Zealand

🥾 Hike detailsKey facts about the Kepler Track hike

Total Distance: The Kepler Track spans approximately 60 kilometers (about 37 miles) in a loop, making it a solid multi-day trek for those looking to immerse themselves in New Zealand’s stunning landscapes.

Estimated Duration: Most hikers take around 3 to 4 days to complete the track. This gives you enough time to soak in the views and not feel rushed, especially if you want to take a few breaks along the way.

Difficulty Level: This trail is generally rated as moderate to challenging. It has some steep sections and can be demanding, particularly if the weather turns. Having a decent level of … read more 👉
Total Distance: The Kepler Track spans approximately 60 kilometers (about 37 miles) in a loop, making it a solid multi-day trek for those looking to immerse themselves in New Zealand’s stunning landscapes.

Estimated Duration: Most hikers take around 3 to 4 days to complete the track. This gives you enough time to soak in the views and not feel rushed, especially if you want to take a few breaks along the way.

Difficulty Level: This trail is generally rated as moderate to challenging. It has some steep sections and can be demanding, particularly if the weather turns. Having a decent level of fitness will definitely help.

Starting Point: The trailhead is located at the Kepler Track car park, which is a short distance from Te Anau.
  • Public Transport: You can catch a bus from Te Anau to the trailhead. Several companies operate this service, and it’s a popular option for hikers. Just check the local schedules to find a bus that suits your timing.

Major Landmarks Along the Route:
  • Luxmore Hut: This is a popular stop with stunning views, located at the top of the first big climb.
  • Mount Luxmore: The summit offers breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding mountains and lakes.
  • Shallow Bay: A lovely spot along the lake where you can take a breather and enjoy the scenery.
  • Control Gates: The end point of the track, where you can see the impressive engineering that manages the lake’s water levels.

Type of Terrain and Scenery: The track features a mix of terrain, including well-formed paths, rocky sections, and some steep climbs. You’ll walk through beech forests, across alpine ridges, and along lakeshores. The scenery is nothing short of spectacular, with views of Lake Te Anau, the surrounding mountains, and lush valleys.

Typical Vegetation and Wildlife:
  • Vegetation: Expect to see dense beech forests, subalpine shrubs, and tussock grasslands. The flora changes as you ascend, offering a glimpse of New Zealand’s diverse ecosystems.
  • Wildlife: Keep an eye out for native birds like the kea, a cheeky alpine parrot, and the tui, known for its beautiful song. You might also spot the occasional deer or even a rare kiwi if you’re lucky.

So, pack your gear, lace up those boots, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure on the Kepler Track!
⚠️ Hiking info can sometimes be outdated or inaccurate. Before you hit the trail, check the latest conditions with locals. If you do spot anything that's off, I'd love to hear from you, so I can update it for fellow travelers.

🛡️ SafetyTraveler Safety Guide

The Kepler Track is a well-maintained gem, but don’t let that lull you into complacency. Weather can shift in an instant. One moment, you’re basking in sun; the next, clouds roll in, bringing rain and wind. Dress in layers and pack a reliable rain jacket.

The terrain varies. You’ll tackle steep sections that demand focus, especially on the descent. Watch your footing on rocky paths and be prepared for some muddy spots after rain. Navigation is straightforward, but keep your map handy—it’s easy to lose track when the scenery distracts you.

Wildlife encounters are a treat. You might spot a kea or a curious tui. Respect their space; feeding them is a no-go.

Timing is key. Start early to avoid afternoon weather changes and enjoy the trails with fewer crowds. With the right preparation, the … read more 👉
The Kepler Track is a well-maintained gem, but don’t let that lull you into complacency. Weather can shift in an instant. One moment, you’re basking in sun; the next, clouds roll in, bringing rain and wind. Dress in layers and pack a reliable rain jacket.

The terrain varies. You’ll tackle steep sections that demand focus, especially on the descent. Watch your footing on rocky paths and be prepared for some muddy spots after rain. Navigation is straightforward, but keep your map handy—it’s easy to lose track when the scenery distracts you.

Wildlife encounters are a treat. You might spot a kea or a curious tui. Respect their space; feeding them is a no-go.

Timing is key. Start early to avoid afternoon weather changes and enjoy the trails with fewer crowds. With the right preparation, the effort pays off in breathtaking views and that first cold beer at the end.
Check Country Safety

Other New Zealander hikes near Kepler Track

Explore more nearby:

  • Milford Track—rainforest valleys, suspension bridges, waterfalls, remote huts| 73 km away
  • Routeburn Track—mountain passes, crystal-clear rivers, hanging valleys, panoramic lookouts| 90 km away
  • Aoraki - Mount Cook Village Walks—glacial valleys, alpine views, short day hikes, swing bridges| 276 km away

💡 Not sure where to go next?
Create a personalized itinerary for New Zealand including Kepler Track and the places that fit your trip.

Generate my itinerary

👉 Discover all hikes

Or checkout all New Zealand has to offer (think cities, towns, villages, national parks, hikes, beaches, festivals)
Explore New Zealand
Country photo of New Zealand
© Google Images

We 💚 feedbackSumming up the experience

The Kepler Track is a symphony of wild beauty, where every uphill grind rewards you with jaw-dropping views of Lake Te Anau and the surrounding peaks. But let’s be real: the weather can turn on a dime. One moment you’re basking in sunshine, the next you’re dodging rain. Pack for everything, and embrace the unpredictability. It’s all part of the adventure, and trust me, that first cold beer at the end tastes even better after a good soak.

✈️ When did I visit New Zealand?
All the way back in high school I have been visiting the Northern Island of New Zealand (1993).

✍️ Help improve this page!
The information on this page is based on my own backpacking experience in New Zealand, supplemented with up-to-date research and feedback from other travelers. Travel details can change, so if you notice anything outdated or incomplete, feel free to let me know.



🙋‍♂️ Give feedback

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Johan, backpacker and founder of TakeYourBackpackHi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.

This site is built on a combination of firsthand travel experience and carefully curated insights from other backpackers. Many guides are based on places I’ve personally visited, while others bring together tips, observations, and practical advice shared by trusted travelers I’ve met along the way.

The goal is to provide realistic, experience-driven guidance — not generic itineraries — so you can explore destinations with better context, clearer expectations, and more confidence.

Read the full story
Get full country guide •
Instant download • 113 highlights • Full Offline guide