Gertrude Saddle Hike New Zealand: Epic Fiordland Views

In the stunning Fiordland National Park of New Zealand, the Gertrude Saddle hike is a bucket-list-worthy adventure for hikers and photographers.

If you’re planning a trip to New Zealand, this hike offers breathtaking views, a challenging route, and a chance to explore one of the most beautiful corners of the country.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Gertrude Saddle hike.

A Kea sitting on granite ledge with waterfalls in the background. Gertrude Saddle Hike New Zealand. — A Kea along Gertrude Saddle Hike. Photo ©JJ Trailwalker

Why Hike Gertrude Saddle?

The Gertrude Saddle is famous for its jaw-dropping views of Homer Valley and Milford Sound.

On clear days, you’ll witness snow-capped peaks, dramatic valleys, and beautiful alpine landscapes.

It’s perfect for photography and a chance to experience New Zealand’s rugged beauty up close.

If you’re up for a challenge, have backcountry experience, and understand this is an expert-level route then Gertrude Saddle is a must-do.

Getting to the Trailhead

The Gertrude Saddle Track starts near the Homer Tunnel, about 61 miles (98 kilometers) from Te Anau or 7 miles (12 kilometers) from Milford Sound.

The parking area is well-marked, and you’ll find it along the Milford Sound Highway (SH94).

Directions:

From Te Anau, drive along the Milford Sound Highway for approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.
Look for the Gertrude Valley car park near the Homer Tunnel.

Person hiking up rugged rock using a chain next to a waterfall experiencing the Gertrude Saddle hike. — Photo ©JJ Trailwalker

Details About the Gertrude Saddle Hike

Distance: ~4.5 miles (7 kilometers) round trip
Duration: 4-6 hours (depending on fitness level and weather)
Elevation Gain: ~2300 feet (700 meters)
Difficulty: Advanced (suitable for experienced fit backcountry hikers)

Alpine Meadow Start:
The trail begins with a well-marked path leading through an alpine meadow.
Increasing Difficulty:
The trail quickly becomes more challenging as it ascends. Markings become limited, so careful navigation is essential. You’ll encounter steep sections with loose scree and slippery rocks, sturdy footwear is important.
River Crossing Near the Waterfall:
The waterfall area is the most dangerous part of the climb. The first section is a river crossing below the waterfall, marked by large orange triangles. This is a critical point to cross and can be easily missed.
Steep Climb and Scrambling:
Beyond the river, the trail steepens dramatically. Loose rocks and uneven terrain demand careful scrambling. As you ascend, the scree transitions into granite slabs that can be treacherously slippery, especially when wet or icy.
Granite Slabs and Steel Cables:
Follow the orange triangle markers along the granite slabs. These markers will guide you to the steel cables, which provide essential support for climbing the steep terrain leading to Black Lake.
Black Lake Section:
After reaching Black Lake, the trail continues along granite slabs with additional steel cables to assist with the ascent.
Final Ascent to the Saddle:
The final climb involves some rock scrambling. As you approach the saddle, the terrain remains steep and exposed.
The Saddle:
At the top, the saddle reveals breathtaking panoramic views. However, extreme caution is necessary. Stay well back from the edge, as there is a sheer 2300-foot (700-meter) drop to the valley floor. The area is exposed to strong winds, so use caution.
The Descent:
The descent on the Gertrude Saddle trail is much more challenging than the ascent. The risk of injury or losing your way increases on the way down.
Take your time, ensuring every step is secure, especially on the slippery granite slabs and loose scree.
Pay extra attention when approaching the waterfall area, as the river crossing can be difficult to spot. Look carefully for the orange markers to guide you back on track and avoid missing critical points along the trail.
Prioritize safety and stay alert throughout the descent.

Best Time to Hike the Gertrude Saddle

The best and really only time to hike is during the summer months (December to March) when weather conditions permit.

Avoid if there is rain and in winter months as the trail becomes dangerous due to wet, snow, and ice making it very slippery on the steep granite slabs.

Check the Gertrude Saddle weather forecast before heading out.

Fiordland is known for unpredictable weather, so be prepared for sudden changes.

What to Pack

Here’s a list of essentials:

Clothing: Layers including a waterproof jacket, thermal base layers, and sturdy hiking pants.
Footwear: Hiking boots with good grip are essential for navigating slippery rocks.
Backpack: A comfortable daypack with water and snacks.
Safety Gear:
- Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) – there is no cell phone service.
- First aid kit
- Map or GPS device
Other Essentials:
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Hat and gloves (even in summer)
- Camera or smartphone for capturing the views

Tips for a Successful Hike

Start Early: The trail can get busy during peak season, and early mornings offer the best chance for clear skies.
Stay on the Marked Path: Follow the orange markers, especially in the rocky sections.
Check Weather: Fiordland’s weather changes quickly. Turn back if conditions worsen.
Bring Enough Water: While there are streams along the way, they may not always be safe for drinking. A filtered water bottle like the Grayl GeoPress is ideal.
Hike in a Group: This is not a trail to tackle alone, especially if you’re unfamiliar with alpine conditions.

Person standing on top of mountain looking a valley below. Gertrude Saddle Hike New Zealand — Photo ©JJ Trailwalker

Photography Tips for Gertrude Saddle

The Gertrude Saddle offers some of the most photogenic landscapes in New Zealand. Here’s how to capture it:

Golden Hour: Start early to catch the soft light of sunrise for some of your photos.
Wide-Angle Lens: Use a wide-angle lens to emphasize the scale of the valleys and peaks.
Safety First: Avoid risky positions for the sake of a photo. Secure yourself before shooting.
Perspective Shots: Include hikers or objects to give a sense of scale to the vast scenery.

To add even more amazing trails to your itinerary, check out these hikes and photography spots: