For most parts, the track leads through native bush along the ridgeline of hills between the sounds, offering good views either side.

From early 2013 on, the Queen Charlotte Track also has become one of the New Zealand Cycle Trails, accessible for mountain bike-level riders.

[1] The track is maintained by the New Zealand Department of Conservation (DOC) and is well formed and easy to follow.

It is one of the most popular tramping tracks in New Zealand, and is also open to mountain biking all year round except for the section from Meretoto / Ship Cove to Kenepuru Saddle, which is closed for mountain biking from December to February.

The walking track leads over mainly clay soil, with bridges over all major streams, and reaches from sea level to 470m high.