Mount Difficulty
Mountain in Otago · 1,285 m
The hike up Mount Difficulty
The route starts at Bannockburn — recommended parking for the shortest hike to the top.
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Next 10 daysParking and starting point
Check signage and any parking fees on site.
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Frequently asked questions
How high is Mount Difficulty?
Mount Difficulty is 1,285 m above sea level and lies in Otago. Its prominence is 458 m — how far the summit rises above the surrounding terrain.
How long is the hike up Mount Difficulty?
From Bannockburn it is about 9.9 km one way with 1,061 m of ascent. Expect around 6 h round trip at a normal hiking pace.
Where do you park for Mount Difficulty?
The nearest parking is Bannockburn (southeast of the peak) — 9.9 km on foot · ↑ 1,061 m · about 6 h round trip. Alternative: Bannockburn Bridge Parking Area (southeast of the peak) (about 12.2 km to the summit). In the Conquer app you get driving directions to the trailhead and a hiking route to the summit.
Can I log Mount Difficulty in Conquer?
Yes — Mount Difficulty is one of 5,687 peaks in New Zealand in Conquer. On the summit, open the app and tap to log the conquest — GPS verifies you're really there. No one has logged this peak yet — you could be the first.
Conquer Mount Difficulty in the app
Check in on the summit, verified by GPS. Collect peaks across New Zealand, build streaks and level up together with your friends.
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