Summary
The Hooker Valley Track is one of the best short walks in New Zealand. It’s a flat, easy hike with amazing views of some of the best lakes and peaks in Mount Cook National Park. This is the kind of scenery that made New Zealand a perfect setting for the Lord of the Rings movies!
This travel guide will explain how to get there and everything you need to know before you go!
Quick Facts
- Distance: 10 kilometers (6 mi) return
- Elevation Gain: 120 meters (400 ft)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Duration: 3 hrs
Where Is It?
Hooker Valley is located on the South Island of New Zealand, within the stunning Mount Cook National Park. The trailhead starts at White Horse Hill Campground, which also happens to be an excellent place to stay overnight. From Christchurch, it’s a 4-hour drive predominantly along rural roads to reach the national park.
What To Expect: Hooker Valley Trek
This short out-and-back trail features a delightful journey over bridges and past glaciers, pristine lakes, and majestic mountain ranges. During your hike, you will enjoy constant views of Mount Sefton, accompanied by the sounds of its rumbling glaciers. If you’re fortunate, you might even witness an avalanche in the distance!
With great photo opportunities at every turn, the trail remains easy and suitable for everyone. This hike is an accessible choice for all fitness levels.
Despite being beginner-friendly, the visual rewards are extraordinary. You will encounter breathtaking landscapes that continuously evolve.
A plaque at Mueller Lake provides fascinating historical insight:
A hundred years ago, the Mueller Glacier filled the valley floor. You could have walked onto the glacier from near here. Today, the glacier is all but hidden up the valley. Glacial ice left behind is still visible at the far end of the lake. Piles of rock rubble (moraine) dropped by the glacier mark its past extent.
As you round the corner, you’ll be greeted by the sight of Mount Cook, the tallest mountain in New Zealand, with each step drawing you closer to this impressive giant.
The hike culminates at a charming ‘beach’ with a stunning view of Hooker Lake, adorned with floating icebergs. It’s a memorable experience to hold a piece of an iceberg during your adventure in New Zealand!
Fees/Permits
As of 2024, this hike is completely FREE. There are no fees or permits necessary for this beautiful trekking experience.
Where To Stay – Camping
The best camping option is at the nearby White Horse Hill Campground. The Hooker Valley Track and other exceptional trails begin directly from this campground, which also provides flush toilets and filtered water for dishwashing. While there are no showers on site, facilities are available at the nearby Mount Cook Village Shelter.
Although the rates are slightly elevated compared to other camping options, the breathtaking views and prime location undeniably justify the cost. For further details, refer to the handy CamperMate NZ app.
If you’re considering hotel accommodations, you can find half a dozen options in the nearby Mount Cook Village.
