If you’re after a straightforward but scenic and historic walk near Queenstown you can’t go far wrong with the Mt Crichton Loop Track. Starting 12km down the road from Queenstown on the way to Glenorchy it’s a well graded (if hilly) 6.8km 2-4 hour walk. It’s the perfect walk for families (judging by the number I saw on the track!).
It passes through bush, past unusual rock formations, and a tunnel carved by miners.
Sam Summers Hut was built in the 1930s and used while prospecting in the local area for ten years. It’d be a cold but cool place to spend the night, and has it’s own waterfall nearby.
Further round the loop is Lake Dispute, a popular spot for trout fishing, which was well worth the detour to take in the stunning reflections.
Finally a few photos from the drive into Queenstown from Te Anau, it’s a stunning place at any time of the year, but particularly when there’s snow on the mountains.
