Queen Charlotte Track
The Queen Charlotte Track - forested ridgelines over the blue Marlborough Sounds, with lodge comforts
The route
The line through Marlborough Sounds, New Zealand - waypoints, elevation and the day-by-day shape of the walk.
Waypoints
- 1Picton (start)Trailhead
Start [interpolated - upgrade in research]
Approximate node - GPS and name to be upgraded in deeper research.
- 2Stage camp/villageCamp
Staging point (approx) [interpolated - upgrade in research]
Approximate node - GPS and name to be upgraded in deeper research.
- 3Stage camp/villageCamp
Staging point (approx) [interpolated - upgrade in research]
Approximate node - GPS and name to be upgraded in deeper research.
- 4EndTrailhead
End of route [interpolated - upgrade in research]
Approximate node - GPS and name to be upgraded in deeper research.
Season & conditions
Year-round (bike restrictions part of the year)
Generally mild; occasional rain
Open year-round; some sections cross private land (a track pass supports upkeep). Confirm.
On the trail
A rolling ridge track through the Marlborough Sounds with sea views
Non-technical walking/hiking; confirm any exposed or scrambly sections locally
Marked/waymarked route; navigation generally straightforward - carry a map and confirm locally
Suitable for reasonably fit hikers; not wheelchair accessible - confirm specifics
Popular; comfortable
Walk or bike; section-hike with water taxis; lodge-to-lodge
Getting there & staying
Ship Cove (water taxi) to Anakiwa
Water taxis from Picton serve the whole track
Lodges, campsites and DOC campsites; water-taxi bag transfers
Layered outdoor kit, sturdy footwear, sun/rain protection, ample water; patchy mobile coverage - carry a map/PLB where remote
Services in Picton; limited or none on the trail
Not required; self-guided
Permits & safety
A Queen Charlotte Track Land Cooperative pass supports the private-land sections; water-taxi bag transfers. Confirm.
Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.
Sun, some exposed ridge sections, shared bike traffic
Retrace the route to exit; dial local emergency services; carry a means of calling for help where remote
This profile is desk research, compiled from public sources - not a first-hand trail report. Coordinates are approximate.