19 NOV 2023

Routeburn was the first Great Walk I did by myself in New Zealand. Just three days and two nights—not too long to be away from my kids. When in the mountains, it had no mobile phone coverage. By the time I came out, I had almost forgotten I am a mum. It felt so strange and wonderful.

Day 1 Routeburn Shelter → Routeburn Falls Hut (9.8 km 3-4 hrs）

The Routeburn Track can be hiked in either direction. I started from the Glenorchy side, at Routeburn Shelter, and made my way across the mountains toward The Divide.I didn’t journal this hike, so here just share the itinerary and a few photos I took along the way.

Day 2 Routeburn Falls Hut → Harris Saddle → Lake Mackenzie Hut (11.3 km, 4–5 hrs)

I chose this track because it is in Fiordland National Park, with snowy mountains, alpine lakes, and waterfalls. If I was lucky, going in November meant I could still see some snow.

Day 3 Lake Mackenzie Hut → The Divide (12 km, 4–5 hrs)