^{Photo Credit: Graham Dainty}

Hiking the Dusky Track is no walk in the park—it’s one of the toughest and most remote trails in New Zealand.

Deep in Fiordland National Park, the track runs about 52 miles (84 km) between Lake Hauroko and Lake Manapouri and usually takes 8 to 10 days to finish.

This isn’t a hike you do on a whim—it’s for people who are experienced, well-prepared, and ready to get muddy, wet, and a little bit humbled by nature.

What makes the Dusky special is just how wild it is.

You’re deep in the backcountry with no cell service, hardly any other people, and some seriously challenging terrain.

There are river crossings that can turn dangerous after rain, steep climbs, and long, mucky sections where you’ll be trudging through mud up to your knees. But the scenery is incredible—lush rainforests, misty alpine ridges, and quiet lakes that look like glass. It’s raw, untouched New Zealand.

This trail definitely isn’t for beginners.

But if you’re up for a real challenge and want a hiking experience that’s off the beaten path, the Dusky Track is unforgettable.

It’s hard, messy, and totally worth it.

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