Kepler Track
~3 days · 32.1 mi · hard · Point-to-point
Quick facts
What the Kepler Track is known for
The Kepler Track is a Fiordland Great Walk loop near Te Anau, known for a high alpine ridgeline above the bushline with views over lakes and mountains, plus hut-to-hut travel.
Elevation profile
Elevation ranges from 650 ft to 4,469 ft over 32.1 mi. Measured from OSM geometry (approximate).
- Uphill 10.6 mi · 33%
- Downhill 7.5 mi · 24%
- Flat 13.9 mi · 43%
Ridgefold breaks every route into uphill, downhill, and flat — see the full per-day breakdown in the app.
How hard is the Kepler Track?
On the Ridgefold Difficulty Index, the Kepler Track scores 34/100, a relative rating across the 569 trails we've mapped, blending distance, elevation gain, and steepness. It is a comparison within our set, not an official rating.
Best season & permits
Season: Great Walk season, late October to April.
Permits: Advance hut/camp bookings required in season.
Official trail & permit info
Always confirm current conditions, closures, and permit rules with the managing authority before your trip.
Frequently asked questions
How many days does the Kepler Track take?
Most backpackers hike the Kepler Track in about 3 days (2 nights out) over its 32.1 miles, though pace varies with fitness and conditions.
How much elevation gain is on the Kepler Track?
The Kepler Track climbs roughly 8,619 ft total — about 269 ft per mile, topping out near 4,610 ft.
When is the best time to hike the Kepler Track?
Great Walk season, late October to April.
Do you need a permit for the Kepler Track?
Advance hut/camp bookings required in season.
Related trails
Sources & attribution
Route geometry and stats derived from OpenStreetMap (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL) — source relation. Stats are approximate and may differ from official surveys; permit rules and conditions change — verify with the managing authority before your trip. Last reviewed July 2026.