Key Summit Track
A half-day climb from The Divide to alpine tarns and panoramic views of the Humboldt and Darran mountains.
Route overview
The Divide; Routeburn Track climb; signed Key Summit junction; alpine nature loop; return.
The walk follows the Routeburn Track through forest for about an hour before turning onto the Key Summit Track. A short final climb reaches an alpine nature circuit among bogs, tarns and subalpine vegetation. Fine weather is central to both the view and safe travel.
Trail facts
- Country
- New Zealand
- Region
- Southland / Fiordland, with Routeburn Track also crossing Otago
- Distance
- 6.8 km return
- Typical duration
- 3 hr
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- Sustained climb from The Divide; official page does not publish a verified gain
- Best season
- Best in fine, snow-free conditions
- Trail type
- Out-and-back with summit nature loop
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- No permit or booking for day use.
Safety context
Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Fast weather change, wind, rain, snow or ice, slippery boardwalks and low visibility.
Highlights
Alpine tarns, bog vegetation, birdlife and Humboldt and Darran mountain views.
Why find a buddy
Useful for family supervision, weather decisions and low-visibility navigation.
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.