Hooker Valley Track is one of the most picturesque walks in the South Island.
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It’s also one of the easiest and more popular walks in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, thanks to its flat terrain, suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of Mueller Glacier, Hooker Lake, and Mount Cook.
Everything you need to know about this place is below, so keep reading for the best tips.
HOW TO GET TO HOOKER VALLEY TRACK
The drive to Hooker Valley Track is straightforward and easily one of the most picturesque roads in New Zealand, thanks to the route along Mount Cook Road. This 55 kilometre / 34 mile stretch offers stunning views of the breathtaking Lake Pukaki and New Zealand’s highest mountain, Mount Cook.
Whether you’re coming from Lake Tekapo or elsewhere, every viewpoint along this road is worth a stop for its scenery. One popular spot is Tapataia Mahaka/Peter’s Lookout, undeniably famous for its picturesque road shot. If you attempt this, please remember to prioritise safety, as traffic on this road can be fast-paced.
This road also leads to many other amazing walks in the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
PARKING
White Horse Hill Campground provides plenty of parking spaces. However, make sure you arrive early as it fills quickly, especially during peak times. It’s also well-equipped with public toilets just in case access to necessary facilities is needed before or after embarking on your hike.
HOOKER VALLEY TRACK
I had previously walked this track in summer and despite the crowds, I highly recommend visiting even during peak times. The scenery along this trail is nothing short of incredible. But if you do want to avoid the crowds, consider starting early (preferably before 9am) or just before sunset.
KEY INSIGHTS
Location: Mount Cook/Aoraki National Park, Canterbury
Duration: 2.5 hours
Length: 10.9km | 6.8 miles
Elevation: 197 m
Difficulty: Easy
Open: Year-round but in winter expect snow on this trail
Need to have: Water, sun protection and snacks
HOOKER VALLEY TRACK ACCOMMODATION
If you want to stay in Hooker Valley Village there are plenty of accommodation options. Many hotels, such as the Hermitage and the Alpine Lodge, provide amazing views and can be booked on booking.com. However if you are on a budget, Haka House is available through Hostelworld. Alternatively, you can find unique gems a bit further out in Twizel or Lake Tekapo on Airbnb.
OTHER HIKES AND ACTIVITIES
In addition to the Hooker Valley Track, Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park offers numerous incredible hikes. Mueller Hut and Sealy Tarns are particularly popular and worth considering. For a comprehensive list, check out AllTrails.
If you’re looking for a more luxurious option to explore the national park, I recommend a heli tour. We went with Mount Cook Ski Planes & Helicopters, and it was one of the best experiences I’ve had. You’ll fly over glaciers, and mountains, seeing the best of this place from the sky. For those who feel extra adventurous you can also book to do a heli hike which includes landing on a glacier and exploring glacial ice formations.
CANTERBURY
Canterbury is the largest region of the South Island, covering most of the East Coast. It includes Timaru, Christchurch, Lake Pukaki, and Lake Tekapo, and as you probably know is home to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
This region is one of my favourites as it boasts everything from city vibes, to incredible hiking and walking trails and if that doesn’t tickle your fancy there is always the vibrant hues of lupins in full bloom during summer.
If you would like to explore more of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, check out my blog post of 4 breathtaking locations here. Alternatively if you’re exploring more of the Canterbury and the South Island, I have you covered with 20 incredible locations that should 100% be on your bucket-list.
In this post, we’ve explored the stunning Hooker Valley Track, one of the most picturesque and accessible walks in the South Island’s Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. From breathtaking views from Mount Cook Road to practical tips on parking and accommodations, I hope here you have found everything you need to know for an unforgettable experience.