How to prepare for a South Island hike: Tips on what to do before you set off on a Great Walk or backcountry hike near Queenstown and GlenorchySoot

You’re all set...

Transport is booked, you’ve nailed the accomodation by booking some cosy bedspace at Kinloch Lodge and you’ve spent ages gawping at pictures of the beautiful Glenorchy/Kinloch scenery. 

But what do you need to do before you set off on the trail? Here are some essentials:

Fail to prepare, prepare to fail:

It is always a good idea to seek local knowledge before you set off on a hike. Luckily at Kinloch, our staff are experts on many of the local hikes and will be able to help you plan your route and suggest any precautions you might need to take. 

Our staff at Kinloch Lodge are only too happy to help

Tell a friend: 

Whether you are hiking alone or part of a group, you should always tell someone your plans. It's very isolated around Kinloch and mobile phone coverage can be intermittent so don't rely on a phone call or text.

A safe to get to and from the track is via our affordable track transfer service. We offer set pick-up and drop-off times allowing us to know exactly what time you're supposed to be down from the trail. 

If you're taking your own vehicle, let a member of our staff know your plans. 

It's isolated at the top of Lake Wakatipu

Keep an eye on the weather:

Sometimes it does rain here (yeah, really), so the last thing you want is to be caught unprepared.

Always check the mountain and rural forecasts for the area, as they can be quite different to an urban forecast for a major town or city.

When you’re going out you must consider what effects the weather will have on your trip. If the weather does change for the worse, you need to decide if it’s significant enough to alter your plans.

If it's looking bad, don't be afraid to postpose your trip. The mountains and bush won't go anywhere. 

Plus there's plenty of other things to keep you occupied. How about indulge yourself in our on-site restaurant? Or enjoy a craft beer or award-winning glass of wine. 

We can cater for more than 50 people at Kinloch so often, but not always, we are flexible and can accommodate you for an extra night or two should the weather not play ball. 

There are plenty of culinary delights to choose from, even when the weather is not quite as sunny 

Know your limits:

Everyone likes a challenge but it's important not to push yourself too hard, too soon. 

At Kinloch we have readable guides on a range of walks, hikes and tramps and can offer advice on where to go depending on your previous experience, fitness level and desires.

Take the right gear:

Make sure you have the right gear including food, practical equipment and emergency supplies for the worst-case scenario. Take appropriate means of communication (not just one mobile phone).

At Kinloch Lodge, we offer balanced packed-lunches for you to take with you on the trail. Our on-site café also sells a host of sweet treats - perfect for the boost of energy when your beginning to fade.

And don't forget your togs! Not an essential item on the trail but highly important after a day on the hill or in the bush when you want to soak your weary muscles in our lake-view hot tub. A must!

Soothe those aching muscles in our hot tub

For more safety information and advice on what to do before you set off and what to take click here