Ben Lomond Saddle (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Ben Lomond Saddle?
What makes it 83% Couple-Friendly: Active couples gain a shared challenge and romantic 360° picnic spot; a paid gondola can shorten the walk, yet steep, exposed sections and zero on-route services may deter less-fit partners.
Positives:
- Secluded summit: Early-morning hikes have few other hikers, giving you the saddle almost to yourselves.
- Memorable photos: Sunrise light and wide vistas create perfect couple portraits.
Challenges:
- Steep, rocky climb: The track gains over 1,300 m in 7 km with loose rock—good fitness and sturdy boots are essential.
- No water above gondola: Carry all water and snacks; the only toilet near the saddle offers no supplies.
What is Ben Lomond Saddle?
- A mountain saddle at approximately 1,570 meters on the Ben Lomond ridgeline above Queenstown
- A broad alpine col where greywacke and schist outcrops meet golden tussock fields, anchored by a simple timber bench
- A key waypoint on the Department of Conservation’s Ben Lomond Track, linking the summit of Ben Lomond to its eastern ridge within Mount Aspiring National Park
What is so special about Ben Lomond Saddle for couple trip?
- Sunrise hikes offer private summit views.
- Gondola cuts 4 km and saves energy.
- Guided tours include lunch and local insights.
- Saddle bench is ideal for alpine picnics.
Recommended visit duration: 3-4 hours
Why 3-4 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Allows time for the gondola ride, ridge hike to the saddle, a picnic, and return before afternoon weather shifts.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Ben Lomond Saddle
Sunrise hike via Tiki Trail:
Begin at the Brecon Street trailhead one hour before sunrise for soft morning light on Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables.
Tip: Use headlamps and warm layers; download the DOC track map beforehand as signal can drop on the ridge.
Gondola ride and ridge walk:
Ride the Skyline Gondola to Bob’s Peak then follow the Ben Lomond ridgeline signs to the saddle bench.
Tip: Buy gondola tickets online to skip lines and carry at least 1.5 L of water per person—no refill points above the station.
Guided gondola & walk:
Join a small-group tour that includes gondola return, a guided hike to the saddle, and a packed lunch.
Tip: Book between October and March and advise dietary needs in advance for your lunch pack.
Picnic at the saddle bench:
Bring sandwiches and hot drinks to enjoy 360° alpine views from the saddle bench.
Tip: Pack a lightweight blanket, carry out all litter, and secure items—ridge winds can be strong.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Ben Lomond Saddle
- Start before sunrise: Beat the crowds and capture the best light at the saddle bench.
- Pre-book gondola: Reserve your tickets online to secure preferred time slots and avoid on-site queues.
- Layer up: Alpine weather shifts quickly—bring windproof and insulating layers.
Reviews of Ben Lomond Saddle
Jonathan Oon
After the cable car upper station, Ben Lomond Trail starts. I liked it better than Tiki Trail, as it was more scenic. Unfortunately, I did not get a good view at the Saddle, due to snowy weather. Tiki Trail starts at the cemetery.
Hayden Thun
Great spot to just sit and admire the mountains. It feels so remote. Lovely view. Track is quite hard to follow but was so worth it. Quite snowy in winter and very icy
Marilla Harris-Vincent
Great hike with awesome views! It’s a challenging hike with lots of uphill, but I enjoyed the workout. I cheated and started from the top of the gondola. From the gondola to the saddle and back took me 2 hours. It was muddy in some spots and a bit chilly at the top. I saw some wild goats along the way too, which was very cool.
Faye O
Beautiful, gorgeous, wonderful, amazing view at the top.. We started at the Tiki trail going up to the Saddle then took the gondola going down, which cuts 2km, total hike is 11km, 1300 elevation to the saddle. It’s a busy track even on autumn season, steep but definitely rewarding views.. Bring enough water or electrolytes and energy bars to keep you going. Definitely will do this hike again.
Jacqueline Zwack
Gorgeous gorgeous gorgeous. It is so worth the climb up there. This was our favorite hike in New Zealand. It is a long slog, especially if you start from the Tiki Trail like we did. We started an hour before sunrise and highly recommend doing that. The goal is to get as far as you can before the gondola starts. We went up to just about the peak. The winds made things a bit too sketchy for us to su...
When is the best time to visit Ben Lomond Saddle (Queenstown, New Zealand)?
Between June and September expect snow and ice—check DOC track alerts and consider crampons. From October to March guided tours run daily in milder weather.
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Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Skyline Gondola return for 2 adults | NZD 104 |
| Snacks and bottled water | NZD 20 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 124 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Ben Lomond Saddle
Address: Ben Lomond Track, Queenstown 9371, New Zealand
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About Ben Lomond Saddle
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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