As we loaded up our backpacks with mediocre dehydrated food in anticipation of what are rumored to be some New Zealand's best views on the Routeburn Track, the weather forecast warned of consistent rain. Because we didn't want to start off our new engagement like a bunch of wussies, we both acted like we were too cool for school and headed for the mountains anyways, hoping to see this.
The Routeburn is one of New Zealand's Great Walks, which means that (unlike our Canadian expedition) they offer these great huts along the way to stay in. You get a dry roof, a prison-like mattress and a bunk bed for a small chunk of change. They also have stoves there, so you don't need to bring fuel. It's a huge win for keeping your pack small.
We walked through the rain for most of the three days. To be frank: it was miserable. Not only was it wet, but it was COLD. Like low 30s cold.
It became hysterical every time we came to a clearing because we knew there were majestic mountains just beyond the giant white cloud we were standing in. Every time we turned a corner, and it looked something like this, Ben would turn to me and say "WOW. I bet that's a GREAT view."
Cool stuff: always meeting new people, learning a great card game, and the 2 hours of views we got:
Tips for doing the Routeburn:
The Routeburn is one of New Zealand's Great Walks, which means that (unlike our Canadian expedition) they offer these great huts along the way to stay in. You get a dry roof, a prison-like mattress and a bunk bed for a small chunk of change. They also have stoves there, so you don't need to bring fuel. It's a huge win for keeping your pack small.
We walked through the rain for most of the three days. To be frank: it was miserable. Not only was it wet, but it was COLD. Like low 30s cold.
It became hysterical every time we came to a clearing because we knew there were majestic mountains just beyond the giant white cloud we were standing in. Every time we turned a corner, and it looked something like this, Ben would turn to me and say "WOW. I bet that's a GREAT view."
Cool stuff: always meeting new people, learning a great card game, and the 2 hours of views we got:
Tips for doing the Routeburn:
- It's so cold. Pack mittens. And ear muffs.
- The hikes are surprisingly short (and even shorter if you're a strong hiker). Some people even do the whole thing in a day. Make sure you bring plenty to do, and a box of wine or two.
- The Routeburn actually gets less rain than the Milford Track, so there's that!
- The wardens at the huts are AWESOME. We got local experts to teach us about the New Zealand wilderness each night. Great bonus.
- There's a strong bus system for the start and end of the track, and there are also services that will move your car for you while you hike. We opted for the car moving, and were so glad to have our own space to strip down out of wet clothes at the end of 3 days.
Those certainly look like great views. Glad that you were able to capture some of them despite the weather.
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