Heading into New Zealand’s Southern Alps on foot is a true adventure — a chance to step off the beaten track and into a world of dramatic ridgelines, snow-fed rivers, and vast, high-country basins. Whether you’re joining an Alpine Recreation guided trek to Caroline Hut and Ball Pass, hiking the Tekapo High Country, or crossing the Main Divide, a bit of smart preparation can make all the difference.

Here’s how to get ready for your alpine hike or trek:

 

1. Know What Kind of Terrain You’ll Encounter

Alpine Recreation’s treks are a step up from standard bush walks or Great Walks. Expect steep, uneven terrain, sections of scree, rock-hopping, river crossings, and sometimes travel across snow or ice. There is often no trail and you'll truly be off-the-beaten-path. While you don’t need technical climbing skills, you do need to be confident on rough ground — and comfortable carrying a pack for multiple hours.

Your guide will manage navigation and safety, but the terrain still asks for solid fitness and a good head for heights. Check your trip details thoroughly and ensure you've read all the information provided.

 

2. Build Fitness Before You Go

The better your fitness, the more you’ll enjoy the trek. Start training at least 6–8 weeks ahead with:

• Regular hikes with a 10–12 kg pack
• Steep uphill walks (tracks with 500–800m elevation gain are ideal)
• Back-to-back day hikes to simulate multi-day fatigue

Leg strength, endurance, and sure-footedness matter more than speed. If you’re unsure of your current fitness level, Alpine Recreation is happy to advise on whether a trip suits your experience.

You'll find more specific fitness requirements for your trip on the relevant product page on our website.

 

3. Pack Light — But Pack Smart

Alpine Recreation provides a full gear list tailored to your trip, you'll find it on the relevant product page on our website. Gear like crampons, ice axes, helmets and avalanche safety gear (if applicable) is provided free of charge. Don’t overpack — your guide can help you refine what you need.

 

4. Mental Preparation Matters

Be ready for changeable weather, early starts, and physical challenge. That’s part of the fun. The weather in the Southern Alps changes fast and the mountains don’t always follow your plan — snow might fall in summer, rivers can rise fast, and sometimes you’ll need to turn back. Flexibility is key — your guide may adjust plans to match conditions, and that’s part of what makes every alpine trip unique.

 
5. Stay Hydrated and Fuelled

Mountain air burns calories fast and you can easily get dehydrated — it's important to keep sipping water and eating regularly throughout the day.  Alpine Recreation provide snacks that are high in calories and easy to eat on the move — nuts, dried fruit, muesli bars, cheese, crackers, chocolate. We also supply all main meals, so you don’t need to pack dehydrated dinners. If you have specific dietary requirements, you can let us know on your enrolment form or send us an email.

 
6. Learn and Enjoy the Journey

One of the great things about a guided trip is the chance to build your skills. Your guide is there not just to lead but to teach — whether it’s how to self-arrest with an ice axe, read avalanche terrain, or move efficiently on snow. Don’t be shy — this is your opportunity to learn from experienced professionals. Ask questions, get involved, and learn something new with every step.

 

7. Soak It In

Take time to stop and look around. The views from Kaitiaki Peak, the peaceful solitude of wandering up Snake Ridge in the Two Thumb Range, the first light hitting Aoraki / Mount Cook from Caroline Hut — these are the moments that stay with you. Capture a photo or two, sure, but don’t forget to just be there.

 

Ready to Go?

Check your gear list, give your boots a test run, and get excited. Whether you’re crossing the Main Divide or trekking across a glacier, your Alpine Recreation adventure is more than just a trip — it’s a step into a wilder, more beautiful part of New Zealand.