Can we wash and dry clothes?

Drying Rooms on the Milford and Routeburn Tracks

Why drying rooms matter

Anyone who has hiked in Fiordland or Mt Aspiring National Parks knows the weather can change in an instant. Rain, river crossings, or simply working up a sweat can leave your gear damp. Having dry clothing and boots ready for the next day makes a huge difference to your comfort and safety. That’s why every Ultimate Hikes lodge has a dedicated drying room.

How our drying rooms work

Our drying rooms are specially designed with heating and ventilation systems that circulate warm air to dry gear overnight. They’re separate from guest rooms and lounges, so damp items don’t affect the lodge environment. Simply hang your wet boots, socks, jackets, or packs, and let the system do the work while you enjoy a hot shower and dinner.

What you can dry

• Clothing: Layers like fleece, thermals, and waterproof shells.
• Footwear: Hiking boots and camp shoes - only in certain drying rooms
• Accessories: Gloves, hats, gaiters, and socks.
• Packs: If your backpack gets soaked, it can go in too.

We recommend avoiding drying delicate fabrics (like merino) on the hottest racks, your lodge host will guide you on the best places to hang items. We don't recommend drying tecnical jackets like gortex as the material can melt.

Lodge differences

Not every drying room is the same size or setup:

• Steele Creek Lodge (Grand Traverse): more rustic, no dedicated drying room.
• McKellar Lodge: smaller, with limited drying space – we recommend prioritising essential gear.
• Glade House, Pompolona, Quintin, Mitre Peak, Mackenzie, and Routeburn Falls Lodges: larger drying rooms with plenty of space.

If the room is busy, please be considerate and share space so everyone’s gear can dry.

Tips for making the most of the drying rooms

• Wring out wet clothes first: Removing excess water makes the drying process faster.
• Use hangers and racks correctly: Your lodge host will show you the best way to hang items for maximum airflow.
• Label your gear: With so many jackets and socks in the room, it’s easy to lose track.
• Check before bed: Pop back after dinner to make sure your gear is hanging well and drying properly.

Peace of mind on the track

Knowing you’ll arrive to a lodge with a warm, dry place for your gear means you don’t need to overpack clothing “just in case.” One walking set and one lodge set is usually enough. With the drying rooms working overnight, you’ll start each day warm, dry, and ready to enjoy the trail ahead.