Kepler Track to Dock Bay and Brod Bay
An easy lakeshore section of the Kepler Track through beech forest to Dock Bay and Brod Bay.
Route overview
Kepler car park; Lake Te Anau shoreline; Dock Bay; Coal Creek bridge; Brod Bay; return.
This family-oriented Great Walk sampler follows Lake Te Anau through mountain and red-beech forest. Dock Bay and Brod Bay provide picnic and swimming settings, with a seasonal water taxi offering a one-way alternative. Untreated campsite water and sandflies require preparation.
Trail facts
- Country
- New Zealand
- Region
- Southland / Fiordland, with Routeburn Track also crossing Otago
- Distance
- 5.6 km return
- Typical duration
- 1–3 hr return
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Elevation gain
- Minor lakeshore undulation
- Best season
- Year-round when track and road conditions are suitable
- Trail type
- Out-and-back
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- No day-use permit; campsite booking rules apply only for overnight stays.
Safety context
Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Cold lake water, sandflies, rain, slippery roots and variable Fiordland weather.
Highlights
Beech forest, Lake Te Anau beaches, swimming and picnic stops.
Why find a buddy
Useful for supervising children near the lake and arranging one-way transport.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.