Winter Guided Walks in Fiordland

16 Apr 2025

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When the days grow shorter and frost settles in the valleys, Fiordland reveals a wilder kind of magic. Winter offers peaceful trails, snowy peaks, and fewer people – but also colder temperatures, shorter daylight hours, and more demanding conditions. From May to September, Trips & Tramps offers a select range of guided walks for those prepared to rug up, stay flexible, and embrace the adventure.

What to Expect in Winter

Fiordland’s winters are wild, beautiful, and at times challenging. While the landscapes are truly stunning – with snow on the tops, mist in the valleys, and tranquil, crowd-free tracks – conditions can be more demanding. Temperatures often hover near freezing, daylight hours are short, and tracks may be muddy, icy, or snow-covered.

Guests must come prepared with warm clothing, waterproof layers, and sturdy footwear. Flexibility and a sense of adventure are essential – the weather can shift quickly, and we may need to adjust plans for safety. But for those who enjoy nature at its rawest and most peaceful, winter in Fiordland is a deeply rewarding time to explore.

Misty valleys and cooler temperatures typify the winter hiking experience in Fiordland

Kepler Heli Hike (Winter Edition)

Take to the skies for a bird’s eye view of Fiordland in its winter glory. This full-day adventure requires a good level of fitness year-round, especially in winter when conditions can be more challenging. After a short scenic helicopter flight across Lake Te Anau, we land near Luxmore Hut and explore the alpine area as conditions allow. From there, we descend via the Kepler Track through native forest and follow the lake edge to finish at the control gates. It’s the ultimate winter combo of thrill, solitude, and stunning scenery.

Note: From May to September, there is no water taxi service. During this time, we may not walk above Luxmore Hut due to winter conditions, but we aim to give you as much time as possible in the alpine zone. We then walk out to the control gates instead, covering 14 km (9 miles) with an 800 m (2,600 ft) descent.

Winter on the Kepler Track can bring lots of surprises!

Routeburn Track – Key Summit Guided Walk

The Routeburn Track from the Fiordland side remains accessible in winter – and we take you to one of its most scenic spots. We walk through peaceful beech forest to reach Key Summit, then continue into the alpine herb fields, where panoramic views await on clear days. Expect snow-capped peaks, serene surroundings, and plenty of time to soak up the beauty – without the summer crowds.

Note: This is a moderate return walk of around 7 km (4.3 miles) with a steady climb. A good level of fitness is required, particularly in winter when conditions can be cold and track surfaces may be wet, icy, or muddy.

Kepler Jet Boat & Hike (Winter Edition)

Add some winter thrill to your visit with this unique jet boat and walk combo. Zoom along the crystal-clear waters of the Upper Waiau River, surrounded by snow-dusted mountains, before joining your guide for a gentle walk back to Te Anau along a scenic section of the Kepler Track. With fewer people on the trail, native birdlife is often more active, and the quiet of the winter bush makes for a truly memorable experience.

Note: This recommended winter walk covers around 6 km and is well suited to the season – mostly sheltered by native forest, low elevation, and not too strenuous. A fantastic option for a wide range of abilities, right on Te Anau’s doorstep.

Milford Sound Coach & Cruise (with Winter Walks)

Milford Road in winter is an adventure in itself. Join us on a small-group coach trip that takes time to explore scenic spots and enjoy short nature walks along the way. With snow often blanketing the mountains, frost-covered landscapes, and dramatic light, this full-day experience is a must-do.

The trip includes a nature cruise on Milford Sound – with waterfalls, wildlife, and awe-inspiring scenery. Our experienced local driver takes care of the alpine conditions and knows where to go when winter weather adds a bit more challenge. Sit back, relax, and experience the magic of Milford in its most peaceful season.

Winter on the Routeburn Track can often bring snow underfoot, as this is in the heart of the mountains

🚫 Sorry, No Milford Track in Winter

Although it’s one of our most iconic trails, the Milford Track takes a well-earned rest in winter. Once the summer season ends, the boats stop running and the track is left to the elements. It’s extremely cold and isolated in the Arthur Valley, and the track is not safely accessible. We recommend exploring our other incredible winter offerings instead.

🌨️ Ready to Embrace Winter in Fiordland?

Our winter walks are all about slowing down, soaking it in, and enjoying the peaceful beauty of this world-class wilderness. Whether it’s standing above the clouds at Key Summit or walking alongside the quiet waters of the Kepler Track, there’s something truly special about Fiordland in winter.

Let us show you.