New Zealand — Wanaka
Roys Peak Track, New Zealand's iconic alpine walk, offers a demanding 16km return ascent to a 1,578m summit overlooking Lake Wanaka. This 5-6 hour route climbs through open tussock grasslands, revealing vast panoramas of dramatic highlands. Expect a strenuous but rewarding climb with unparalleled views.
Distance: 16.0 km
Elevation Gain: 1228 m
Difficulty: Challenging
Duration: 5-6 hours
The Roys Peak Track is perhaps the most recognisable day hike in New Zealand, a 16-kilometre return journey that has become a global symbol of the country’s dramatic alpine beauty. Rising 1,228 metres from the shores of Lake Wanaka to the 1,578-metre summit of Mount Roy, this track offers a relentless but rewarding ascent through high-country tussock grasslands. Unlike many of New Zealand’s Great Walks that wind through dense podocarp forests, Roys Peak is characterised by its openness; from the very first step, hikers are treated to expanding views of the shimmering blue waters of Lake Wanaka, the jagged peaks of Mount Aspiring National Park, and the sprawling Matukituki Valley. It is a landscape of immense scale, where the sky feels vast and the mountains feel infinite.
While its fame on social media often precedes it, the reality of Roys Peak is a serious physical undertaking. It is not a casual stroll, but a steep, zig-zagging climb that tests the endurance of even fit hikers. The track follows a well-formed farm road across private land, specifically the Mount Roy Station, which remains an active sheep and cattle farm. This unique intersection of public recreation and private pastoralism defines the character of the walk. Hikers share the slopes with grazing livestock, navigating a series of switchbacks that seem to never end until the final, breathtaking ridge line is reached. Whether you are seeking the perfect photograph at the famous "lookout" or pushing for the true summit to stand amongst the clouds, Roys Peak provides a quintessential New Zealand mountain experience that stays with you long after the descent is finished.
The Roys Peak Track is a masterclass in perspective. Located in the Otago region of the South Island, it serves as a natural amphitheatre overlooking the Southern Alps. The walk is defined by its consistency; there are no flat sections, no hidden valleys, and very little shade. It is a direct, honest climb from the car park at 350 metres above sea level to the summit at 1,578 metres. This lack of topographical variety is exactly what makes the views so spectacular—as you gain height, the horizon simply drops away, revealing more of the lake’s intricate shoreline, its islands (such as Mou Waho and Mou Tapu), and the snow-capped giants of the Tititea/Mount Aspiring massif in the distance.
The terrain is dominated by golden tussock (Chionochloa), a hardy native grass that ripples in the wind like a tawny sea. This open landscape means hikers are exposed to the elements throughout the entire duration of the walk. In the height of summer, the Otago sun can be fierce, reflecting off the dry earth and making the climb feel significantly more arduous. Conversely, the wind can whip across the exposed ridges with startling force, even on a seemingly calm day in Wanaka. The track itself is wide and gravelled, designed to accommodate the farm vehicles of Mount Roy Station, which makes for easy footing but does little to alleviate the strain on the calves during the ascent or the knees during the descent.
Most hikers aim for the famous "lookout" point, located about 1.5 kilometres before the actual summit. This narrow ridge provides the iconic "Instagram" shot where a lone hiker appears to stand on the edge of the world with Lake Wanaka far below. However, the true summit lies further up the ridge, marked by a transmitter station and a trig point. Reaching the very top provides a 360-degree panorama that includes the Clutha River, the Crown Range, and on exceptionally clear days, the distant peaks of the Remarkables near Queenstown. It is a journey of grit and determination, where the physical toll of the 1,228-metre climb is balanced by the sheer emotional impact of the scenery.
The history of Roys Peak is inextricably linked to the pastoral development of the Otago region. The mountain is named after Captain William Roy, a pioneer who was involved in the early surveying of the district. For over a century, the land has been part of Mount Roy Station, a high-country run that has seen generations of farmers managing sheep and cattle on these steep, unforgiving slopes. The track hikers use today was originally carved out for farm management, allowing shepherds and vehicles to reach the higher altitude grazing lands. This agricultural heritage is still very much alive; the track is closed annually from the 1st of October to the 10th of November to allow for lambing, a critical period where the ewes require peace and isolation to ensure the survival of their young.
From a Māori perspective, the wider Wanaka region holds deep significance for Ngāi Tahu, the iwi (tribe) of the South Island. The name Wanaka is a corruption of Oanaka, meaning "The place of Anaka," a reference to an early ancestor. The lake and its surrounding mountains were traditional seasonal homes where Māori would travel to hunt moa, gather eels (tuna), and collect plant resources. The high peaks served as landmarks for navigation through the complex alpine passes. While Roys Peak itself may not have the same specific mythological status as some of the larger peaks like Tititea (Mount Aspiring), it forms part of the cultural landscape that Ngāi Tahu have traversed and named for centuries.
In recent decades, the history of Roys Peak has taken a modern turn. With the rise of digital photography and social media, the track transitioned from a local secret and a training ground for mountaineers into one of the most popular tourist destinations in New Zealand. This surge in popularity has brought challenges, including the need for expanded parking and improved waste management. The Department of Conservation (DOC) works closely with the landowners to maintain the balance between protecting the farming operation and providing public access to this world-class viewpoint. The track stands as a testament to the "freedom to roam" spirit of New Zealand, where private land can be shared for the benefit of all who respect the environment.
Want more background? Read extended notes on history and cultural context → Learn more
The experience of Roys Peak changes dramatically with the seasons, and understanding these shifts is crucial for a safe and enjoyable hike. The "Great Walk" season logic doesn't strictly apply here as it is a day hike, but the weather patterns of the Southern Alps dictate the accessibility of the summit.
Summer (December to February): This is the most popular time to hike, characterised by long daylight hours and warm temperatures. However, summer brings the challenge of extreme heat. Because there is no forest cover, hikers are exposed to the sun for the entire 5–7 hours. Temperatures in Wanaka can exceed 30°C, and on the track, the heat is intensified by the lack of breeze in the lower zig-zags. Early morning starts (4:00 AM or 5:00 AM) are highly recommended to beat the heat and the crowds.
Autumn (March to May): Many locals consider this the best time for Roys Peak. The air is crisper, the light is softer for photography, and the temperatures are much more comfortable for a strenuous climb. The golden hues of the tussock are complemented by the changing colours of the trees in the Wanaka township below. Snow may begin to dust the summit in late May, adding a dramatic contrast to the blue of the lake.
Winter (June to August): In winter, Roys Peak becomes a serious alpine undertaking. The upper sections of the track are frequently covered in deep snow and ice. Hikers must be equipped with ice axes and crampons, and possess the knowledge of how to use them. Avalanche risk can be a factor on the steeper upper slopes after heavy snowfalls. The days are short, and temperatures at the summit can drop well below freezing with wind chill. Only experienced alpine hikers should attempt the summit in these conditions.
Spring (September to November): Spring is a time of transition. The snow begins to melt, often leaving the track muddy and slippery. CRITICAL NOTE: The track is closed every year from 1 October to 10 November for lambing. This closure is strictly enforced to protect the livestock on Mount Roy Station. If you are planning a trip during this window, you will need to look at alternative hikes like Isthmus Peak.
Early Morning: The Lower Zig-Zags
Mid-Morning: The Conservation Area and Mid-Slope
Midday: The Famous Lookout and Ridge Line
Early Afternoon: The Final Push to the Summit
Late Afternoon: The Descent
Preparation for Roys Peak focuses on physical fitness and timing. Because the track gains over 1,200 metres in just 8 kilometres, it requires a good level of cardiovascular endurance and leg strength. If you are not a regular hiker, consider doing some smaller hills in the days leading up to the climb. Logistics are relatively simple as the trailhead is only a 6-minute drive from the centre of Wanaka. However, the car park is small and fills up extremely early—often by 8:00 AM in summer. If the car park is full, do not park on the grass verges of the main road, as you will likely be fined or towed. Consider taking a shuttle from Wanaka or cycling to the trailhead if you aren't an early riser.
Wanaka is the perfect base for this hike, offering everything from luxury lodges to bustling backpacker hostels. The town has several outdoor equipment stores where you can hire trekking poles or buy last-minute supplies like high-SPF sunscreen and hydration bladders. There is no booking required for the track itself, but you must check the DOC website for any temporary closures due to weather or track maintenance.
This is a day hike requiring no overnight accommodation on the mountain. Camping is strictly prohibited on the Roys Peak Track and within the Mount Roy Station boundaries. This is to protect the private land, the livestock, and the fragile alpine environment. There are no huts or shelters on the track. If you are looking for an overnight alpine experience in the area, you should look into the French Ridge Hut or Aspiring Hut in the nearby Mount Aspiring National Park, both of which require separate planning and bookings.
No permits or fees are required to hike the Roys Peak Track. It is free for all members of the public to access. However, because the track crosses private land, access is a privilege granted by the landowners of Mount Roy Station. Hikers must respect the following rules to ensure this access remains open for the future:
While there is no entry fee, there is a donation box at the start of the track. Contributions go toward the maintenance of the track and the facilities (such as the toilets at the car park and the mid-way point). If you have enjoyed the walk, a small donation is a great way to show appreciation for the upkeep of this world-class resource.
Detailed route notes, maps, logistics & tips for the Roys Peak Track (PDF).
Precisely traced GPX for the Roys Peak Track, ready for your GPS or favourite mapping app.
Wanaka is a hub for outdoor adventure and relaxation. After conquering Roys Peak, consider these other local experiences:
The primary safety concerns on Roys Peak are exposure and physical exhaustion. Because the track is so accessible and popular, many hikers underestimate the mountain environment. It is essential to treat this hike with the same respect you would give a remote backcountry route.
Weather Awareness: The weather in the Southern Alps can change in minutes. A clear blue sky in the morning does not guarantee a safe afternoon. Check the MetService mountain forecast for "Southern Lakes" before you start. If clouds begin to build or the wind picks up significantly, be prepared to turn back. Hypothermia is a risk even in summer if you get wet and the wind chill factor is high.
Heat and Dehydration: This is the most common cause of distress on Roys Peak. The combination of steep climbing and direct sun can lead to heat exhaustion quickly. Drink water regularly, even if you don't feel thirsty, and use the few shaded spots (usually behind large rocks or the occasional small dip in the terrain) to rest and cool down.
The Descent: More injuries occur on the way down than on the way up. The constant braking motion required on the steep gravel track puts immense strain on the quadriceps and knees. Fatigue can lead to slips and twisted ankles. Take your time on the descent, use trekking poles, and ensure your boots are laced tightly to prevent your toes from hitting the front of your shoes.
Emergency Communication: Cell phone coverage is generally good along most of the Roys Peak Track due to its proximity to Wanaka and the transmitter at the summit. However, there are "dead zones" in some of the folds of the mountain. Always tell someone your intended return time before you set off.
While Roys Peak is a linear track, there are a few specific points of interest that deserve extra attention during your hike:
The "Instagram" Lookout: Located at approximately 6.5 kilometres into the climb, this is the spot that made the mountain famous. It is a narrow spur of land that offers a perfectly framed view of the lake. On busy days, you may see a line of people waiting for their turn. If you don't want to wait, there are several other similar spurs slightly higher up that offer almost identical views without the crowd.
The True Summit: Many people stop at the lookout, thinking they have reached the top. The true summit is another 150–200 metres of vertical gain further up the ridge. The view from the very top is significantly different, as it opens up the vista to the north and west, revealing the deep valleys of the Matukituki and the high peaks of the Alps that are hidden from the lower lookout.
Mount Roy Transmitter: The summit is home to a large telecommunications array. While not aesthetically pleasing, it serves as a useful landmark during the climb. The area around the transmitter is the highest point and provides the best 360-degree views.
Hidden Waterfalls: After heavy rain, small temporary waterfalls can sometimes be seen in the gullies to the south of the track. These are rare due to the dry nature of the schist rock, but they add a touch of magic to the landscape when they appear.
Roys Peak is a high-use area, and its beauty depends entirely on the collective responsibility of every hiker. Because it is private farmland, the impact of rubbish and waste is even more sensitive. Following the Leave No Trace principles is essential for keeping this track open and beautiful.
