Queen Charlotte Ultramarathon

The Queen Charlotte Track is typically advertised as a 3-5 day tramp; however, for an epic adventure, tackle it in a single day!

Enjoy this well-maintained track that is predominantly shaded by native trees, first hugging calm bays before ascending and crossing Kenepuru Saddle, which offers captivating views of both the Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru Sounds.

Route Navigation: The route is well-defined, marked by typical DOC "distance to X" boards and occasional kilometer-to-go markers.

Upon starting at Ships Cove, the trail is immersed by native forest along a clay/loose rock path, accommodating two abreast. To warm up, it immediately starts with a climb, shortly passing Resolution Bay on the right. Descending a second hill to sea level the track hugs the bay leading into Furneaux Lodge. Between Furneaux and Punga bay, the track is largely more of the same. Think of a relatively flat, not-so-technical track with stunning bay views.

At the 27 km mark, there is a fork in the trail. Option A involves bypassing Punga Cove/Camp Bay campsite for a 1.7 km climb to Kenepuru Saddle (~9km to the next water stop). Option B adheres to the main track, staying at sea level to reach Camp Bay campsite/Punga Cove, rejoining the trail at Kenepuru Saddle via a dirt road, albeit slightly longer.

Across the Kenepuru saddle, underfoot, it changes to a dirt track with sections of single-track for the climbs. Still, it's well-maintained and not overly technical, but expect the odd muddy patch even in summer. Now you are up on the ridge, through breaks in the trees, you can enjoy views down to the Kenepuru sound (and phone reception to share some snaps!). Rolling along another ~7.5 km (not 10 km as the DOC sign suggests) the track passes through the Bay of Many Coves campsite and shortly after, the highest point of the track.

The next stop is Black Rock campsite before a steeper descent to Torea Road. The junction at Torea Road indicates Cowshed Bay campsite to the right, Torea Bay to the left, and forward is the QCT with another climb. The ridge becomes more exposed as the forest disperses, featuring mostly dirt single tracks with occasional rocky switchbacks on the downs. At around the 55 km mark, there's a turn-off to Lochmara Lodge, and at 57.5 km, after a steep downhill section, a sign provides information about Mistletoe Bay.

Continuing straight in the direction of "2 km to Mistletoe Bay" leads to a quiet dirt road. After turning left and following the road for ~100 m, cross and follow the well-signed QCT. At 58 km, with about 12 km remaining, a flat section and a final uphill section await. The delightful downhill section begins at 64 km, surrounded by ferns, featuring a forgiving wide and dirt track.

At 67.5 km, a minor detour to Davies Bay campsite provides an opportunity to fill up on water, or continue straight for another 2.5 km to reach Anakiwa.

Other logistics: As the route crosses through private land, a Queen Charlotte Track Land Cooperative (QCTLC) visitor day pass is required ($15 per day in 2023). Can be purchased online, via an app, at a tour/boat taxi in Picton or on the track.