Routeburn - Glenchory entrance to Harris Saddle in one day?
 

Hello -

I'm wondering if anyone has done a day hike as far as harris saddle and back, starting from the glenchory entrance? If so, how long did it take you? I know weather may impede how far I get but I'd love to know ballpark timing. I'd like to do a day hike and heard Routeburn is great - but I only have a day.

thanks!

I've only walked as far as Routeburn Flats, which is about a four hour round trip from the Glenorchy side.

It's a great walk, I highly recommend it. Take your bug repellant though, the sandflies can be fierce.

I don't know how much further Harris Saddle is, but the DOC site might be of help if you haven't looked there already.

Some info from the DOC regarding this section of the track. Looks to me as if hiking up to Harris Saddle and back could add 3-4 hours to the return journey, making it a 6-8 hour walking day, depending on how fast you walk.

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Routeburn Falls Hut to Lake Mackenzie Hut

4.5–6 hr, 11.3 km

The track climbs steadily from Routeburn Falls Hut to the outlet of the river at Lake Harris. Stop occasionally and look behind you for great views of the Routeburn Valley.

A sidle through moraine and above Lake Harris leads to the high point of the track at Harris Saddle / Tarahaka Whakatipu (1,255 m). (Allow 1.5–2.5 hours for the climb to the saddle.) Please keep to the track as vegetation in this sub-alpine area is very fragile. Harris Saddle is located on the boundary between Mt. Aspiring National Park and Fiordland National Park. There is a day shelter and toilet located here.

Please note: The following sub-alpine section of track is exposed and can be hazardous in adverse weather conditions – being prepared and having the right equipment is vital. Allow 3–4 hours to Lake Mackenzie Hut from the Harris Saddle.

thanks Melnq8 - you are always so helpful on this site! It looks like I could probably do this as a full day hike if the weather cooperates.

You're tougher than I am mhohol. Enjoy.