Worth a Journey

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The World’s 100 Best Hikes

Gertrude Saddle

Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

  1. THE WORLD’S BEST HIKES WORTH A JOURNEY · 2026 ✦ ✦ N° 23 2026

No. 1 in OceaniaNo. 1 in New Zealand

Gertrude Saddle

A steep alpine route in Fiordland climbs from a flat glacial valley past waterfalls and Black Lake to a saddle overlooking the Milford valley and fjord. The upper section crosses granite slabs and boulders with fixed cables and ropes, and becomes dangerous when wet.

Highlights

  • Glacier-carved valley with stream crossings
  • Black Lake below the saddle
  • Granite slabs with fixed cables

Good to know

  • About 8 to 10 km return
  • Allow 4 to 6 hours return
  • Do not attempt in rain or ice

Also in New Zealand

  1. Mueller Hut Route N° 27 Mueller Hut Route Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park Mountain
  2. Tongariro Alpine Crossing N° 28 Tongariro Alpine Crossing Tongariro National Park Volcano
  3. Roys Peak N° 30 Roys Peak Wānaka Summit
  4. Rob Roy Glacier Track N° 50 Rob Roy Glacier Track Mount Aspiring National Park Glacier
  5. Robert's Point Track N° 71 Robert's Point Track Westland Tai Poutini Glacier