The Kepler Track: Just divine views

A Maverick Traveller: The Podcasts of Mary Jane Walker

THE Kepler Track begins on the shores of Lake Te Anau — the largest body of fresh water in the South Island of New Zealand — and winds its way through the spectacular Fiordland National Park.‍

Looping for some sixty kilometres up alpine heights and alongside two beautiful lakes, the track starts and ends only five kilometres from the town of Te Anau, at the Kepler Track carpark.

According to the official Discover New Zealand website newzealand.com, what’s unique about the Kepler Track is that it was designed from scratch:

"Unlike many other multi-day walks, which evolved from Māori greenstone trails or pioneer exploration routes, the Kepler Track was custom-made, built for pleasure, rather than necessity.

"Opened in 1988, the track was carefully planned to show walkers all the best features of Fiordland — moss-draped beech forest, prolific bird life, tussock high country, huge mountain ranges, cascading waterfalls,vast glacier-carved valleys, luxuriant river flats and limestone formations.The track’s construction makes for easier walking. Most streams are bridged,boardwalks cover boggy areas and the very steep sections have steps. Walk the Kepler and you’ll see everything that’s marvelous about this exquisite corner of the world."

(Quoted as of the time of writing.)

The Kepler Track certain does make for magnificent views of the mountains and of the two large lakes that it loops between!‍

Original blog post: a-maverick.com/blog/kepler-track-just-divine-views