Gertrude Saddle Route
Located in Fiordland National Park and Milford Road/Milford Sound area in the Fiordland region
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Introduction
Gertrude Saddle includes rocky alpine terrain and should only be attempted by experienced trampers and in good weather. Wet weather, snow or ice create treacherous conditions in any season.Image gallery
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Rock slabs on Gertrude Saddle are slippery and dangerous when wet. Image: Don Bogie | DOC
![Steep slab rock on Gertrude Saddle Route.]( "Steep slab rock on Gertrude Saddle Route.")
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Steep climb on Gertrude Saddle Image: | DOC
![Tramper using rope to climb rock face next to waterfall.]( "Tramper using rope to climb rock face next to waterfall.")
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Steep and wet slippery rock can cause falls with fatal consequences. Image: | DOC
![Rock face with patches of snow and water flowing down.]( "Rock face with patches of snow and water flowing down.")
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Gertrude Saddle Route Image: Jaime Apolonio | Creative Commons
![Valley leading up to a steep rock face.]( "Valley leading up to a steep rock face.")
Video
Steep climbs on Gertrude Saddle Route
This is a challenging tramping route requiring tramping and alpine experience, and is not recommended in winter due to avalanche danger.
From the car park, the marked track meanders up the valley through spectacular alpine vegetation. From the head of the valley the route leads up towards the saddle; from this point there are no permanent track markers. Cross the Gertrude Stream below a large, steep waterfall area, about halfway up to Black Lake.
From here, parts of the track are very steep and not suitable for those with limited tramping experience, or a dislike for heights. The track goes up steep rock slabs and is treacherous when wet or frosty - there are steel cables to assist you.
From the head of the valley continue up through the boulders to the saddle. Return the same way.
Breathtaking views of the valley and part of Milford Sound/Piopiotahi can be seen from the Gertrude Saddle. This track provides excellent access to the mountains for experienced climbers.
If there's rain or snow, don't go. You need to cross multiple rivers and steep granite slabs on this route.
Understand if you are ready for the Gertrude Saddle Route
Watch the NZ Mountain Safety Council’s walk-through video which takes you through how to prepare for this track. Including facilities, key decision points, hazards and typical conditions for the area.
This track is reached from the Gerturde Valley carpark, about 98 km along the Milford Road from Te Anau.
Essential safety
Only attempt this track if:
- you are fit and experienced – on the route you will have to scramble up steep rock, cross rivers, and avoid hazards by following markers
- track and weather conditions are good on the day
- you have the right equipment, including a personal locator beacon – see the Day hikes gear list.
This is an alpine route
There are no permanent markers above the bushline, so alpine and navigation skills are essential. Rock cairns placed by trampers mark the route, but be sure to follow your own judgement and use a topographical map.
This is an alpine route and is subject to avalanches after snow.
Weather
Check the Fiordland National Park weather forecast and talk to the staff at the Fiordland National Park Visitor before you go, whenever you go.
After rain there are some creek crossings so expect to get wet feet.
Avoid wet rocks
Wet moss on the rocks and rock slabs of the route is very slippery. It can be treacherous.
Stay safe in the outdoors
- Take the right gear for your trip: Walking and tramping gear lists.
- Tell a trusted person your plans and when to raise the alarm if you haven’t returned. Send them the information directly, or use the Outdoor Intentions form or Plan My Walk.
- Follow the five essential steps of the Land Safety Code.
Contacts
| Te Rua-o-te-moko / Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre | |
| Phone: | +64 3 249 7924 |
| Fax: | +64 4 471 1117 |
| Email: | fiordlandvc@doc.govt.nz |
| Address: |
Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre Lakefront Drive Te Anau 9600 |
| Postal Address: |
PO Box 29 Te Anau 9640 |
| Full office details | |