New Zealand — Twizel
Discover New Zealand's premier day walk on the Hooker Valley Track in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. This easy 4.3km route offers stunning alpine panoramas and glacial lakes, accessible to most. Traverse a landscape of staggering proportions, surrounded by the majestic Southern Alps. A truly unforgettable, scenic walk.
Distance: 4.3 km
Elevation Gain: 124 m
Difficulty: Easy
Duration: 1 hour
The Mount Cook Hooker Valley Track is arguably New Zealand's most celebrated day walk, offering an unparalleled alpine experience that is accessible to almost anyone with a moderate level of fitness. Located within the awe-inspiring Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage area, this 4.3-kilometre journey (one-way) leads walkers through a landscape of staggering proportions. From the moment you leave the trailhead, you are enveloped by the grandeur of the Southern Alps/Kā Tiritiri o te Moana, with the snow-capped peak of Aoraki/Mount Cook serving as a constant, majestic sentinel at the head of the valley. This is not merely a walk; it is a sensory immersion into a world of ancient ice, turbulent glacial rivers, and resilient alpine flora.
The track is masterfully engineered, featuring three impressive suspension bridges that sway over the grey, silt-laden waters of the Hooker River. These bridges provide not only safe passage but also exhilarating vantage points to witness the raw power of glacial meltwater. As you progress deeper into the valley, the vegetation transitions from hardy sub-alpine scrub to delicate alpine herbs, including the famous Mount Cook Lily (Ranunculus lyallii), which blooms in spectacular white clusters during the late spring and early summer. The journey culminates at the terminal lake of the Hooker Glacier, where icebergs often float serenely in the water, having calved from the glacier's face. Standing at the edge of the lake, with the 3,724-metre summit of Aoraki towering directly above, walkers experience a profound sense of the scale and antiquity of the New Zealand wilderness.
The Hooker Valley Track is a masterclass in accessible wilderness design. It manages to transport walkers into the very core of a high-alpine environment without requiring the technical skills or extreme physical exertion usually associated with such landscapes. The path is predominantly flat, following the natural contours of the valley floor, which was carved out by the massive Hooker and Mueller Glaciers over millennia. Today, the retreat of these glaciers has left behind a dramatic landscape of lateral moraines—huge ridges of rock and debris pushed aside by the ice—which the track skirts and occasionally traverses.
One of the defining characteristics of this walk is the constant presence of water in all its forms. You will hear the distant thunder of avalanches tumbling off the hanging glaciers of Mount Sefton, the rushing roar of the Hooker River as it surges beneath the suspension bridges, and the gentle lap of waves against the rocky shore of the Hooker Lake. The water here is a distinctive "glacial flour" colour—a milky, opaque turquoise or grey caused by fine rock particles suspended in the meltwater. This visual signature of the Southern Alps provides a striking contrast to the dark grey schist of the mountains and the deep green of the valley vegetation.
The track is also a journey through a fragile and unique ecosystem. Because the valley is subject to extreme weather, the plants here have evolved remarkable adaptations. You will see the "vegetable sheep" (Raoulia eximia), dense cushions of tiny plants that look like woolly mounds from a distance, and various species of Celmisia (mountain daisies) that carpet the valley floor in summer. The area is also home to the Kea, the world's only alpine parrot, known for its intelligence and mischievous nature. Seeing a Kea soar overhead, its underwings flashing brilliant orange against the backdrop of the white peaks, is a highlight for many visitors. The Hooker Valley Track offers a rare opportunity to witness these natural wonders in a setting that feels remote and wild, yet remains within reach of a well-prepared day hiker.
For Ngāi Tahu, the Māori iwi (tribe) of the South Island, Aoraki is the most sacred of ancestors. According to tradition, Aoraki and his three brothers were the sons of Rakinui (the Sky Father). They brought their waka (canoe) down from the heavens to visit Papatūānuku (the Earth Mother), but their waka ran aground on a reef and tilted. As the brothers climbed onto the high side of the waka, they were turned to stone by the freezing north wind. The waka became the South Island (Te Waka o Aoraki), and the brothers became the peaks of the Southern Alps, with Aoraki, the tallest, standing as the principal ancestor. This deep spiritual connection is recognised today through the Topuni status of the mountain, which ensures Ngāi Tahu values are integrated into the management of the park.
European history in the valley is inextricably linked to the golden age of mountaineering. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Hooker Valley served as the primary gateway for explorers and climbers attempting to conquer the great peaks of the Southern Alps. The first recorded ascent of Aoraki/Mount Cook took place on Christmas Day, 1894, by Tom Fyfe, Jack Clarke, and George Graham. Their route took them through these very landscapes, though without the benefit of the modern bridges and groomed paths enjoyed by today's walkers. The valley also saw the exploits of Freda Du Faur, the first woman to climb Aoraki, who in 1910 challenged the social conventions of the time by climbing in trousers and without a male chaperone, proving that the high mountains were a place for everyone.
The development of the track itself reflects the changing nature of tourism in New Zealand. Originally a rough route for hardy climbers, it was gradually improved by the Department of Conservation (DOC) and its predecessors to accommodate the growing number of visitors seeking to experience the park's beauty. The current infrastructure, including the three suspension bridges, represents a significant engineering feat, designed to withstand the extreme winds and heavy snowfall of the alpine environment. Today, the track stands as a bridge between the ancient Māori legends of the land and the modern spirit of adventure and conservation.
Want more background? Read extended notes on history and cultural context → Learn more
The Hooker Valley Track is a year-round destination, but each season brings a distinct character and set of challenges. Summer (December to February) is the most popular time to visit. The days are long, with twilight lasting until nearly 10:00 PM, and the weather is generally at its most stable. This is the peak blooming season for alpine wildflowers, and the valley is at its most vibrant. However, summer also brings the largest crowds, and the track can feel busy, especially between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM. It is also the time when the sun is most intense; the high-altitude UV levels in New Zealand are exceptionally high, and sunburn can occur in as little as 15 minutes.
Autumn (March to May) is many locals' favourite time to walk. The air becomes crisp and clear, often providing the best visibility for photography. The summer crowds begin to thin, and the first dustings of new snow often appear on the lower peaks, creating a beautiful "sugar-coated" effect. Winter (June to August) transforms the valley into a true alpine wonderland. The track is often covered in snow or ice, requiring sturdy boots and sometimes crampons or ice grippers. The Hooker Lake may partially freeze, and the surrounding mountains are draped in heavy white blankets. While spectacular, winter walking requires careful attention to weather forecasts, as storms can move in rapidly, bringing sub-zero temperatures and gale-force winds.
Spring (September to November) is a season of dramatic change. As the snow melts, the Hooker River swells with runoff, and the waterfalls cascading down the valley walls become thunderous. This is also the most volatile season for weather, with the "Nor'wester" winds frequently lashing the park. These winds can be incredibly powerful, occasionally forcing the closure of the suspension bridges for safety. Regardless of the season, walkers must be prepared for "four seasons in one day." The Southern Alps create their own microclimate, and a blue-sky morning can easily turn into a sleet-filled afternoon. Always check the latest mountain forecast at the DOC Visitor Centre before setting out.
Waypoint 1: White Horse Hill Carpark to Mueller Lookout
Waypoint 2: First Suspension Bridge to Second Suspension Bridge
Waypoint 3: Second Suspension Bridge to Stocking Stream
Waypoint 4: Third Suspension Bridge to Hooker Lake
Important Notes:
While the Hooker Valley Track is an easy walk, its location in a high-alpine environment means that preparation is key to a safe and enjoyable experience. There is no public transport directly to the trailhead, so most visitors arrive by private vehicle or via shuttle services from nearby towns. The closest service hub is Mount Cook Village, located just 2 kilometres from the trailhead. The village has a world-class DOC Visitor Centre, which is an essential first stop for up-to-date weather information, track conditions, and fascinating exhibits on the park's natural and human history.
Fitness requirements are modest; if you can walk on flat ground for three hours, you can complete this track. However, the alpine sun and wind can be draining, so ensure you are well-hydrated and nourished before starting. If you are staying in Twizel or Lake Tekapo, allow at least 45 to 60 minutes for the drive to the park, as the scenery along Lake Pukaki is so spectacular you will inevitably want to stop for photos. Ensure your vehicle has a full tank of fuel, as there are limited and expensive refuelling options within the National Park itself.
This is a day hike requiring no overnight accommodation on the track itself. Camping is strictly prohibited along the Hooker Valley Track to protect the fragile alpine environment and maintain the experience for all visitors. However, there are several excellent options for staying near the trailhead to allow for an early start.
Nearby Options:
One of the great appeals of the Hooker Valley Track is that no permits or entry fees are required to walk it. Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is free for all to enter and enjoy. This accessibility is part of New Zealand's commitment to providing public access to its most spectacular natural spaces. However, there are some administrative and safety considerations to keep in mind.
Key Information:
While the walk itself is free, please consider making a donation at the DOC Visitor Centre. These funds go directly toward the maintenance of the tracks and the protection of the park's unique biodiversity, ensuring that the Hooker Valley remains in pristine condition for future generations.
Detailed route notes, maps, logistics & tips for the Mount Cook Hooker Valley Track (PDF).
Precisely traced GPX for the Mount Cook Hooker Valley Track, ready for your GPS or favourite mapping app.
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, and the Hooker Valley Track is often just the beginning of a visit. Consider these other experiences to round out your trip:
Alpine Weather: The most significant danger in the Hooker Valley is the weather. The Southern Alps act as a barrier to the moisture-laden winds from the Tasman Sea, resulting in rapid and violent weather changes. Even if the sun is shining, always carry a waterproof jacket and warm layers. Hypothermia is a real risk if you become wet and the wind picks up, even in temperatures well above freezing.
Wind Hazards: The valley acts as a funnel for the wind. On "Nor'wester" days, gusts can exceed 100 km/h. The suspension bridges are designed to move, but in extreme winds, they can become dangerous to cross. If you find it difficult to stand or walk against the wind, it is time to turn back. DOC staff will occasionally close the track if conditions are deemed too hazardous.
Rockfall and Avalanches: While the track is generally safe from direct avalanche paths, you will frequently hear and see them on the distant slopes of Mount Sefton. Do not venture off the marked track onto the moraine walls, as these are unstable and prone to localized rockfall. The terminal lake shore can also be hazardous; never walk on the ice of the lake, as it is thin and the water beneath is near freezing.
Sun and Hydration: The thin alpine air and high UV levels mean you will burn and dehydrate faster than at sea level. Apply sunscreen frequently, wear a hat, and drink plenty of water. If you begin to feel dizzy or develop a headache, find shade and rest immediately.
Emergency Procedures: In the event of an injury, stay with the person and keep them warm. Use your mobile phone to call 111 (New Zealand's emergency number), but be aware that signal is patchy. If you have no signal, you may need to send a member of your party back to the trailhead or the Visitor Centre to raise the alarm. This is why carrying a PLB is highly recommended for all hikers in New Zealand.
The Alpine Memorial: Located just a short walk from the start of the track, this stone pyramid is a poignant site. It bears the names of many climbers and guides who have perished in the surrounding mountains. It serves as a powerful reminder of the respect that these peaks demand and offers a quiet place for reflection with a stunning view of the Mueller Glacier.
Freda's Rock: A large boulder located near the start of the track where Freda Du Faur was famously photographed. It has become a symbol of the pioneering spirit of women in mountaineering. It is a popular spot for a quick photo before the valley opens up.
The Mount Cook Lily (Ranunculus lyallii): While not a "side trip" in the geographic sense, seeking out these flowers is a seasonal quest. They are actually the world's largest buttercup, not a lily. Look for them in the damp, sheltered hollows along the boardwalk sections between the second and third bridges from November to January. Their large, cup-shaped green leaves are visible year-round.
Mueller Lake Shore: While the main track stays high on the moraine, there are small, informal paths that lead down to the edge of the Mueller Lake near the first bridge. This offers a different perspective on the grey, silty water and the sheer walls of the moraine that hem it in. Be cautious of the unstable ground near the water's edge.
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is a pristine environment that faces significant pressure from high visitor numbers. Following the Leave No Trace principles is essential to ensure the park remains healthy and beautiful. The alpine ecosystem is incredibly slow to recover; a single footstep off the track can destroy a plant that has taken twenty years to grow.
Your responsibility as a walker:
