The Classic
Important Information about The Classic
The Milford Track is only accessible by boat at both ends, and the track is only walked one way.
The Routeburn Track can be walked in both directions. Ultimate Hikes walks always start at the Divide on the Milford Road and finish at the Routeburn Shelter near Queenstown.
INCLUSIONS
- Transport ex Queenstown (can pick up in Te Anau but must return to Queenstown).
- 3 nights accommodation on Milford track + 1 night at Milford Sound in our private lodges.
- A scenic cruise on the majestic Milford Sound.
- 1 night in Te Anau (accommodation only).
- 2 nights accommodation on Routeburn Track
- All meals and snacks on track.
- A 40ltr backpack to borrow that will contain your belongings and that you will carry with you.
- All in the company of experienced guides.
TIMING
Pre track briefing
This is held the day before your walk departure date at the Ultimate Hikes Centre in Queenstown at 2.45pm.
Departure
The bus departs Queenstown the following morning at 9.15am. It arrives in Te Anau approximately 12.00pm.
You will arrive at the start of the Milford Track at approximately 3.00pm.
Te Anau
You will arrive in Te Anau after the Milford Track section of your walk around 1.00pm. The bus will collect you in the morning to meet your Routeburn Track group at approximately 9.00am
Return
The group gets back to Queenstown at approximately 4.00pm, but can be subject to delays due to weather or traffic. we can drop you off at Te Anau.
We recommend you spend the night on each side of your walk in Queenstown.
RISK MANAGEMENT
Before booking a hike with Ultimate Hikes you should be aware that hiking on New Zealand’s Great Walks and tracks, involves risks that include natural hazards such as flood, rockfall, landslip, earthquake and avalanche. Unpredictable weather including high winds, snow and heavy rain can occur at any time which may cause exposure . The tracks are uneven, rocky and steep in places. Ultimate Hikes takes every reasonable precaution to eliminate or minimise the risks you could be exposed to, but natural hazards can be unpredictable and should they occur, they could result in injury, and even death.
You are required to adhere to any instructions given to you by a guide at all times including the wearing of appropriate clothing for the conditions. Failure to comply with any instruction could result in you being unable to continue and/or being removed from the activity. You are also responsible for all children in your care doing the same.
Click on the link below to read our Risk management strategy.
Risk management strategy
WEATHER
The all important question - what will the weather be like?
It is essential to be well prepared for all seasons. Fiordland & Mt Aspiring National Parks have very changeable weather patterns and high rainfall levels. This means that snow, high winds and rain can occur at any time of the year.
Fiordland has around 9 metres of rain a year and its sheer cliffs can quickly come to life with waterfalls. Rivers and creeks can also rise quickly so be prepared to walk through water.
Layers of warm, quick drying and breathable fabrics are the key to keeping warm in wet weather and cooling off in the sun. Whatever the weather you'll see some spectacular landscapes!
What will the weather be like?
COMMUNICATION
WiFi Free Zone
It is important to remember that the tracks are in a remote wilderness area. There is no cellular or internet service on the tracks. All of our guides and the lodges are in touch with each other and the Queenstown base by radio. Communications are possible but must come through the Queenstown office.
