Tips for Exploring the Hump Ridge Track

Uncover the hidden beauty of one of Fiordland National Park’s Great Walks, the Hump Ridge Track.

Hiking through this three-day loop is not for the faint of heart; it requires extreme preparedness and a sense of adventure to walk through the spectacular track successfully.

Whether hiking solo for the first time or with a group, you should prepare the essentials and look for ways to make the most of this exciting experience.

We understand multi-day hiking feels intimidating, so we curated some tips to guide you on this incredible track.

Make a Detailed Plan

Planning saves you from unforeseen troubles and other inconveniences during your adventure. It also helps you guarantee a safe and enjoyable hiking experience.

Start your plan by learning the best time to hike on the Hump Ridge Track, the trail’s difficulty level, the distance from the start to endpoint, and the other accessible routes.

You can also set a budget for your adventure, especially if you decide to go for a guided walk or avail yourself of a hiking package to maximise your time in Fiordland National Park.

Research the Location and Weather

Whether you are a newbie or a returnee to the Hump Ridge Track, it always pays to check the location to set your expectations and get a glimpse of the trail.

You can estimate the travel time by learning the distance from your place to the trail and planning some activities before you start your hike.

Also, experience the best features of the track by researching the weather days before your walking schedule. It allows you to prepare the essentials to stay safe and dry and prevent mishaps due to sudden rain or bad weather conditions.

Pack the Hiking Essentials

Pack your hiking essentials before you hit the track to save you from any hassle, especially in the middle of the trail where resources are scarce.

A day before your hiking adventure, lay out the necessary items and gear, such as:

• Hiking Backpack
• Sleeping Bag
• First-aid and Survival Kits
• Toiletries
• Flashlights
• IDs and Other Documents
• Camera
• Matches

Check their quantities and conditions, and if everything is complete and ready, pack them wisely in your backpack.

Bring Enough Food

Imagine having the best time of your life exploring the Hump Ridge trail, and the fun vibe suddenly gets ruined by your rumbling stomach.

Packing meals and snacks to satisfy your hunger and replenish your burned calories during the hike will save you from interrupting your adventure.

Always bring enough food for your daily meals, from breakfast to dinner, water, and high-energy snacks. Pack lightweight but high-quality cooking utensils and cookware to prepare and cook your food while resting along the trail.

Wear the Right Clothes

Since the Hump Ridge trail features the sub-alpine zone and the southern coast of Fiordland, New Zealand, you should pack and wear hiking clothes that match the beautiful areas of the track and are appropriate for the weather.

Before making your way to the breathtaking highlands, wear comfortable, waterproof, windproof hiking jackets, lightweight pants, boots, hats, gloves, and socks. Don’t forget to bring extra clothing layers, such as polar fleece or wool, if you are hiking in colder months.

Pack your sunhat, glasses, sunscreen, and other essentials since you’ll pass through the blissful southern coast. Light hiking clothes can make you more comfortable hiking along the coastline.

Select a Hiking Package

The Hump Ridge loop is a three-day hike. While you can hike alone or with friends, booking a Hump Ridge multi-day hiking package is recommended.

It is safer and more convenient since they offer excellent package inclusions, from transportation to private guides.

Instead of plotting your itinerary and adjusting your schedules to explore and finish the trail without missing the amazing spots, your daily outdoor activities are already set with the Hump Ridge trail hike packages.

You can guarantee to experience and discover the spectacular track and make your hike worthwhile. You only need to select a hiking package from a trusted service provider that fits your needs and budget.

Check the Package Inclusions

If you decide to book a guided walk package, check its inclusions to know if you are getting your money’s worth.

The most important factors to consider when getting a hiking package are the itinerary, transportation, food, accommodation, private guide, duration, and other activities and services.

These will help you pack your things, set the right expectations, and plan the rest of your hiking trip since the service provider takes care of the most essential aspects.

You can request an additional service, but it often comes with an extra fee, or it depends on the agency if they have the resources and abilities to grant your request.

Look for Hump Ridge Track Accommodation

As excellent and accessible as the trail, the Hump Ridge Track accommodation options don’t disappoint. You can stay in beautiful facilities with exceptional amenities during your three-day hike.

Most of these lodges and cabins are designed to fit the trail's serene atmosphere. There are also bunk or private room options, cosy lounges, delicious food, and other incredible features that can help you relax and connect with nature.

Enjoy the Hump Ridge Track

The most important part of your hiking trip is that you make the most of the experience and enjoy discovering the breathtaking spots along the trail.

Don’t forget to pace yourself, and don’t worry about rushing to your fellow hikers because hiking is a recreational activity meant to relax and refresh you.

Also, take pictures as you make plenty of memories. Start strong and finish stronger while enjoying the spectacular views and features of the track.

Discover Great Walks in Fiordland with New Zealand Walks

The Hump Ridge Track is indeed one of the hidden gems of Fiordland. If you want to discover the other Great Walks in Fiordland National Park with experienced hikers, you can turn to New Zealand Walks.

We offer a remarkable multi-day hiking package so that you can have a memorable adventure in Humpridge trail. For bookings and enquiries, please contact +64 3 5736655 or email [email protected] today. 

Posted by New Zealand Walks on September 12, 2023