About This Route
Lake Gunn Snowshoe Circuit is a flat 3 km loop through podocarp forest around this serene lake, 5 minutes drive from The Divide on Milford Road. Ideal for families or novices, it offers birdwatching (fantails, tui) and reflections of snow-capped peaks in winter. DOC track takes 45-60 minutes; snowshoes handle the occasional drifts. Leave No Trace: no feeding birds. Remote Fiordland setting demands preparation despite short length.
Safety Considerations
Snow bridges over creeks fail; test before crossing. Wind chills drop temps fast; REI hypothermia checklist vital. Avalanche unlikely but check flanks. Alpine Fault proximity: earthquake ready. Road snow chains required November-May; NZTA chain stations nearby.
Essential Gear
Atlas Helium snowshoes for light snow, REI poles, Baffin Impact boots. Icebreaker layers, Rab Ascent puffy, Outdoor Research shells. Map, compass, energy gels, bivy sack.