For 10 years, Kinloch Lodge has been accommodating trampers before and after the Routeburn track. We've put together a list of frequently asked questions to help with your pre-track planning. We are happy to help with all transportation bookings - just send us an email or fill in the contact form on the left side of the page.
- How far is Kinloch Lodge from the Routeburn Track?
Kinloch Lodge is 19km from the Routeburn Track. Drive time is approximately 30 minutes.
- Do you offer transport to the Routeburn Track?
Kinloch Lodge has transportation to the Routeburn Shelter carpark at 9.30am most mornings during walking season. Cost is $25/person. Advanced bookings are essential and minimum numbers apply.
- Can I leave my car at Kinloch Lodge while I walk the Routeburn Track?
YES! We offer free car parking whilst on the Routeburn Track.
- Can I leave some luggage at Kinloch Lodge while on the track?
Yes. Kinloch Lodge offers free luggage storage for guests staying at our accommodation before or after the Routeburn Track. Luggage storage for non-guests is not available at this time.
- I want to walk out earlier/later than scheduled times. What are pick up options?
Kinloch Lodge can arrange for chartered transportation outside of our scheduled times to/from the Routeburn and Greenstone/Caples tracks. Routeburn charter prices start at $100 and charters to the Greenstone/Caples start at $60. Call (03) 442-4900 or email for a transportation quote.
- How can I get my vehicle from the Routeburn Shelter to the Divide?
Trackhopper can relocate your car from one end of the Routeburn track to the other. Visit Trackhopper's website for more information.
- How can I book accommodation on the Routeburn Track?
The Department of Conservation has an online booking system for accommodation on the Routeburn Track
- How much does it cost to stay in a hut?
The cost of accommodation in the DOC huts on the Routeburn Track is $45/person/night for the 2009/2010 Walking Season. Cost of accommodation in huts on the Greenstone or Caples tracks is $15/person/night. Bookings are essential and space can be limited from Dec - March.
- Do you hire sleeping bags and other gear?
No. Sleeping bags and other gear you may need for the track can be hired from Info & Track in Queenstown.
- I’ll be walking out of the Greenstone Caples in the afternoon, how do I get back to my car at the Routeburn carpark?
There is regularly scheduled transport from the Greenstone/Caples carpark to Kinloch at 2pm. Cost is $25pp. From there, you can either hire a bike ($7/hr) and cycle the 19km up to the Routeburn carpark or take our transport the following morning back to your car ($25pp).
- I’ll be walking out of the Routeburn in the afternoon, how can I get to Kinloch Lodge?
Charter services are available for pick up from the Routeburn Track. Prices start from $100. Call or email for a quote.
- I only want to walk one way - how can I get back from the Divide to Queenstown or Kinloch?
There are several options for transport from The Divide. Please call or email with your dates and specific requirements and we will help you determine the best option given your time or budget constraints.
- Are there any daywalks on the Routeburn?
YES! The Routeburn Track is great for daywalks. The wide, well maintained track is accessible for most any fitness level. You can do the easy 1hr Nature Trail or walk up to the Routeburn Flats Hut (4hr return) or Routeburn Falls Hut (6hrs return). Fit individuals can even make it to Harris Saddle and back in a day.
Can't find the answer to your question? Complete the contact form on the left side of the page and one of our knowledgeable staff members will get you on the right track! You may also phone (03) 442-4900 or email us with your questions.