Grueling but totally worth it. Did the saddle and summit in 95 minutes, don't believe it takes 3 hours
It was hard to walk up to the summit for 230 hours, but definitely worth for it! We are able to see the cute Alpine parrots-Kea at the top
I set off on this track at 4am so I could watch sunrise. Of course it was to late to reach the summit as it took me 4.5hrs. You could reach the saddle but another mountain will block your way. So instead I climbed up along side the ridge and once I was on top of the ridge I backtracked along (the opposite direction from Ben Lomond) and had the best location for sunrise. I did get to this point by 6am do had over an hour to wait in -3 temperatures but it was well worth it and bluebird kinda day. Once you reach the saddle the views are just outstanding with Mount Aspiring National Park to your right and Queenstown, the Remarkables, Cecil Peak and Lake Wakatipu to your left. Doing like me early September, you'll find most of the snow has melted on the track but it is very muddy and slippery so good hiking boots are recommended. Once you reach the summit, it's just breathtaking. I spent about 1.5hr at the top as it was so beautiful and very little wind. When descending there was still snow, which ultimately melted during the day to slush then freezes again overnight. So it's a little daunting coming down that first part from the summit so take extra care but I promise it's do worth while.
Some of the greatest views of my life.
Took us about 5 hours to summit and return (we didn't ride the gondola at all).
A must see for any tourist.
Easy walk until Ben Lomond saddle. From the saddle the trail is steeper and rocky. The 360 degree view on the top is beautiful.
My favourite NZ peak by a clear mile. The views from here are just astounding and ilthe hike up is really enjoyable! I'd do it again tomorrow!
It'll take you a good long time to get to the peak, but it is well worth the walk. A nice day out, fantastic views and if you can go when it's foggy, you can walk through the fog and above it so that you can watch it clear away.