Ben Lomond Saddle (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Ben Lomond Saddle?
What makes it 42% Kids-Friendly: Strong children aged 8-12 may enjoy riding the gondola then hiking 7 km to sweeping views, but loose scree, drop-offs, five-hour duration and total lack of water make it unsuitable for most families.
Positives:
- Panoramic Views: The saddle bench gives unobstructed views over Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables.
- Reduced Climb: The gondola ride cuts out the steepest low sections, making the hike easier for families.
Challenges:
- Steep Terrain: Loose rock and gravel on the upper ridge requires careful footing.
- Age Suitability: Kids under 8 should only attempt the first 1 km due to track difficulty.
- No Mountain Services: There is no water or shelter past Bob’s Peak; carry all 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 with kids?
- Gondola reduces steep climbing for families
- Alpine picnic spot with 360° views
- Adjustable turnback for younger children
- No services past the gondola top—bring supplies
- Great photo moments in tussock fields and at the saddle bench
Note: Ben Lomond Saddle is 42% Kids-Friendly. You may want to consider other Kids-Friendly Things to Do in Queenstown for a more suitable experience.
Recommended visit duration: 34 hours
Why 34 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Gondola ride plus return hike to the saddle bench fits comfortably in a half day for families.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Ben Lomond Saddle
Ride Skyline Gondola:
Take the gondola from Queenstown to Bob’s Peak for easy access to the track.
Tip: Book tickets online to save time and use the restrooms at the top station before you start hiking.
Family Picnic at Saddle Bench:
Enjoy sandwiches and fruit at the bench just below the saddle.
Tip: Pack snacks, wet wipes, and a picnic blanket since there is no shelter.
Short Ridge Hike:
Follow the ridgeline from Bob’s Peak to the saddle for 360° views.
Tip: Younger kids can turn back at the 1 km marker; use trekking poles on loose gravel.
Photo Stop in Tussock Fields:
Capture the native grasslands and distant peaks near the saddle.
Tip: Look for orange-and-red flax blooms in summer and position kids in the tussock for scale.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Ben Lomond Saddle
- Start Early: Begin your hike by 8 AM to avoid the hottest sun and afternoon winds.
- Set Turnback Points: Use distance markers or time limits to keep kids from overexerting.
- Use Trekking Poles: Poles help stability for both adults and children on uneven ground.
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)?
In summer expect clear skies and warm temps; in winter bring waterproof jackets and microspikes for icy sections.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Skyline Gondola tickets (2 adults, 2 kids) | NZD 176 |
| Snacks and water supplies | NZD 20 |
| Traction device rental (optional) | NZD 30 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 226 |
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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