The Kepler is a brilliant Great Walk because it’s a loop that starts and ends near Te Anau — no complicated transport logistics. Over ~60 km and 3–4 days it climbs from lakeside beech forest onto a spectacular alpine ridgeline with panoramic Fiordland views, then drops to peaceful river valleys and lakes.
The basics
- Distance: ~60 km, usually 3–4 days.
- Difficulty: Intermediate; the exposed ridge section is stunning but weather-dependent.
- Logistics: Loop track near Te Anau — easy to start/finish; a short shuttle or walk links the ends.
Booking & season
Great Walks season runs roughly late October to April. Book huts/campsites through DOC in advance — 2026/27 bookings opened 19 May 2026, and the Kepler runs ~91% full, so move fast. Off-season it’s a tough alpine route.
Short on time? Day-walk it
- Control Gates to Brod Bay along the lake is an easy, free taster.
- Fit hikers sometimes day-walk up to Luxmore Hut for the views (long and steep — check the weather).
What to bring
Boots, full layers and rain gear (the ridge is exposed), and all your food. Check DOC alerts before heading out — Fiordland weather is no joke.
A Campervanz van in Te Anau is the perfect Kepler basecamp.
