Gertrude Saddle Alpine Trek
~A real Fiordland adventure — wild terrain, big views, lasting memories.~
Highlights of the Trip
1
Alpine Cirque
Walk through a glacial-carved valley of cliffs, waterfalls, and open rock slabs.
2
Gertrude Saddle
Summit View
Look across the Darrans toward Milford Sound from a high vantage point.
3
New Zealand's
The Most Beautiful Road
A scenic drive along one of New Zealand’s most beautiful roads
Into Fiordland’s high country for an unforgettable alpine view
Experience Fiordland’s dramatic high country on a private guided Gertrude Saddle hike from Te Anau. Climb through a glacier-carved valley, past Black Lake and across steep rock slabs to an alpine saddle with extraordinary views towards Milford Sound / Piopiotahi. Designed for fit, experienced hikers, this expert-level adventure combines spectacular mountain scenery with private transport, professional guiding and a fresh trail lunch.
Your day begins with a private journey along the Milford Road from Te Anau, travelling through forested valleys beneath towering mountain peaks. The scenery becomes increasingly dramatic as you approach the Gertrude Valley, where sheer rock walls and a rugged alpine landscape set the scene for the walk ahead.
The Gertrude Saddle Route follows the valley floor before climbing through boulder fields and onto open rock slabs. Your private guide helps you navigate the terrain and maintain a steady pace, with time to pause and appreciate the mountains rising around you.
Above the valley, Black Lake rests beneath imposing mountain faces. Beyond it, the ascent continues over steep rock slabs, with fixed cables assisting passage on sections of the route. As you gain height, the views expand across the surrounding peaks, revealing the immense scale of this glacier-shaped landscape.
Reaching Gertrude Saddle brings a remarkable change in perspective. On a clear day, the land drops away towards Milford Sound / Piopiotahi, framed by steep mountain walls. Take photographs, enjoy your trail lunch and absorb the scenery before descending along the same route and returning to Te Anau.
Your guide assesses weather and terrain conditions throughout the day, with progress towards the saddle dependent on suitable conditions and the group’s ability.
Ideal for fit, experienced hikers drawn to rugged alpine terrain, sweeping views and the quiet satisfaction of reaching a high place on foot. Join us for a private guided adventure into Fiordland’s granite heart, with Gertrude Saddle’s extraordinary outlook as your reward.
Price
NZD $450 per person
(All-Inclusive)