It’s an exciting time for the Fiordland Trails Trust!
FTT has long had ambitious plans to extend our trail network and our incredible voluntary team of Trustees has work endlessly to make them a reality.
As at December 2025, we have consents in place to complete the Lake2Lake Trail as a fully off-road experience, connecting Balloon Loop to Supply Bay Road, and to extend the trail north towards the to-be-constructed Eweburn Bridge and then, later, to Boundary Creek.
Completing the Lake2Lake Trail
The Fiordland Trails Trust now has consents in place to connect Balloon Loop to Supply Bay Road with a 5.4 km off-road section of trail. Approval has been granted by Environment Southland and the Southland District Council, along with a Community Agreement with the Department of Conservation, allowing construction to proceed.
Originally, the Trust had hoped to route this part of the trail – Leg 5 of the Lake2Lake Trail – through Fiordland National Park. However, under the current park plan, this was not possible. With support from PAMU and the Department of Conservation, a new route has been approved, promising an exceptional experience for all trail users.
Extending the trail north to the to-be-constructed Eweburn Bridge
As of December 2025, the trail extends north as far as Sinclair Road. The Trust is now focused on building an additional 4.3 km toward Eweburn, including a new trail bridge. This extension will offer locals and visitors even more trail options, with stunning views along the way.
Extending the trail further north to Boundary Creek
Consents are also in place to extend the trail to Boundary Creek, creating an exceptional ride from Boundary Creek to Manapouri and further enhancing the trail network for the region. This forms part of the Trust’s longer-term plans.
Te Anau Downs Trail
Looking to the future, the Trust hopes to extend the trail all the way to Te Anau Downs, forming a 63 km Great Ride that will connect communities and showcase the incredible landscapes of Fiordland. This will require changes to the park plan, and is part of the Trust’s long term vision.
