Hooker Valley Trail - Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park
If you want an easy walk to see the majestic views of river, lake and outstanding snowcapped mountain then this is the walk for you. It's very popular and often busy with lots of tour groups. So my tip is to get your butt early to avoid the crowds and have a the best day here 馃槅. My friend and I completed the Hooker Valley trail early of Spring (October) so it was not as hot as summer season and luckily it was incredible. If you visit on a hot day, make sure to bring hat, enough water, suncreen,... as there is no shade there.
Way to Mount Cook is truly a spectacular scenic drive that will make you stop amount of times on a road to take photograph 馃槂 . Very picturesque 馃槏
It takes about 2-3 hours return trip and it's wild, mostly on level ground 馃槃 suitable for all fitness levels. (good for children also)
Scenery from walking track along the way are wonderful. Make sure you take all the small side track as there are awsome view to see as well as great spots for photos. 馃挌
There are 3 swing bridges you will across and few shaking suspension adds more fun 馃檪. However, check the number of tourists on the bridges before entering as it warns of maximum 20 people at a time. You know...!
The trail ends at the beautiful lake. The views are absolutely stunning with blues sky, snow and cloud on the moutain, plus ice bergs floating on Hooker lake are a treat to see. There is a small picnic area with few tables to sit down and have a break before heading back. We spent a couple of hours here to have lunch and admire the beauty of the glacier lake and its surrounding area.
This track is an absolute must when visiting Mt Cook, cannot recommend highly enough !!! Take your time and enjoy the walk in nature.
Getting there : begin your walk at the Visitor Centre or White Horse Hill campground/carpark (at the end of Hooker Valley Rd off State Highway 80).
Need to know : weather can change quickly in alpine environments so be prepared for variable weather conditions.
My previous posts about New Zealand if you want to check out:
Working & Hoiliday in NZ's Tips
Scenic Road Trip In New Zealand
The Charming Beauty Of Four Seasons In New Zealand
NZ's South Island :
Mueller Hut & Ball Hut, Mt Cook National Park
Cherry Blossoms, Miyazu Gardens, Nelson
Queenstown and Coolest Attractions Surrounding To See For Free Pt1
More Spectacular Views To See Around Queenstown, New Zealand (Pt2- 26 Photos)
NZ's North Island
Local Farmers Market-Hawke's Bay
Rose Garden, Hastings-Hawke's Bay
Castlepoint Lighthouse and Cape Palliser