Discovering the Best Scenic Routes for Backpacking in New Zealand
New Zealand is a backpacker’s paradise. The country’s diverse terrains, stunning natural landscapes, and well-connected infrastructure offer a vast range of backpacking opportunities for all skill levels. From trekking through snow-capped mountains to exploring dense forests and reaching beautiful beaches, New Zealand has it all. If you are planning to pack your backpacks and explore this outdoor enthusiast’s dreamland, let’s help you find the best scenic routes to hike in New Zealand.
Milford Track – Fiordland National Park
Milford Track is one of New Zealand’s most famous walks, attracting adventurers from all over the world. This 53.5 km trail is located in Fiordland National Park, South Island, and takes 4 days to complete. The trek offers awe-inspiring waterfalls, glaciers, rainforests, and alpine scenery. It is usually recommended to hike from late October to early May as this is the authorized season for the track.
Tongariro Northern Circuit
This 43.1 km trail is located in Tongariro National Park, North Island, and takes around 4 days to complete. The trek offers a diverse landscape of emerald lakes, volcanic craters, and bubbling geothermal pools. It is famous for its notorious Red Crater, which provides a unique contrast of bright red soil in the surrounding landscape.
Heaphy Track
Located in Kahurangi National Park, South Island, Heaphy Track is one of New Zealand’s most accessible tracks. It is a 78.4 km trail that takes around 4-5 days to complete. The trek begins on the west coast and finishes on the east coast, making it unique as most hikes don’t cross the country in this way. The trek offers panoramic views of the Tasman Sea, dense forests, and wild beaches.
Abel Tasman Coast Track
Located in Abel Tasman National Park, South Island, Abel Tasman Coast is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks offering an incredible coastal experience. It is a 60 km track that takes approximately 5 days to complete. The trek offers beautiful turquoise waters, golden sands, and lush forests, making it a scenic paradise. It’s a relatively straightforward hike, making it ideal for beginners, families, or those with time constraints.
The Routeburn Track
Located in Fiordland and Mt Aspiring National Parks, South Island, The Routeburn Track is another popular trail in New Zealand. It is a 32 km track that takes approximately 2-4 days to complete. The trek offers breathtaking views of mountains, forests, meadows, and valleys. It is recommended to hike from late October to early May.
The Conclusion
New Zealand’s stunning scenery and diverse terrain make it a top destination for backpacking. The country offers outstanding hiking opportunities, and each hike offers a different experience. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, there’s a route that suits you in New Zealand. It’s imperative to consider the weather conditions, time of year, and your hiking experience before embarking on any hike. With proper preparation and gear, you can enjoy the breathtaking views of New Zealand’s hiking trails all-year-round.
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