Grand Traverse
Important Information about the Grand Traverse
Make sure you know all the fine details
Ultimate Hikes can take up to 24 people on the Grand Traverse.
The walk starts at the Greenstone Track past Kinloch on Lake Wakatipu and ends at the Routeburn Shelter near Glenorchy.
INCLUSIONS
- Transport ex Queenstown only.
- 5 nights accommodation on track in our private lodges.
- All meals, and snacks on track.
- A 40ltr backpack - that will contain your personal belongings and you will carry with you.
- All in the company of experienced guides.
TIMING
The pre-track briefing is at 12.45pm in Queenstown on the day prior to your walk departure date.
The bus departs Queenstown soon after meeting at the Ultimate Hikes Centre at 7.30am the following morning.
Your walk begins at the Greenstone Track at approximately 10.30am.
Return
The group gets back to Queenstown via Glenorchy at approximately 4.00pm, but can be subject to delays due to weather or traffic.
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 meters of rain a year and its sheer cliffs 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!
COMMUNICATION
WiFi Free Zone
It is important to remember that the track is 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.
