Hooker Valley Track: Hiking & Complete Guide in New Zealand
For anyone planning a visit to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, the Hooker Valley Track hiking trail is one of the most searched-for walks. Famous for its swing bridges, glacier views, and Mount Cook backdrop, it’s often described as a must-do for first-time visitors.
The main concerns usually come down to logistics and expectations. How long does the Hooker Valley Track actually take? Is it difficult? the Difference between Summer & winter Hiking? Can kids or less-experienced hikers manage it, and what’s the best time of year to go?
Having walked the Hooker Valley Track twice myself, I’ve put together this complete guide! It covers the trail length, difficulty, what you’ll see along the way, and practical tips so you can decide if the Hooker Valley Track is right for your Mount Cook itinerary.
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How to get to the Hooker Valley Track?
While I found my way to the Hooker Valley Track from Twizel, which is about 50 minutes drive away. You can also start from Tekapo (1 Hour away) and from the accommodations in Mount Cook Village (10 Minutes away).
Either way, directions are as follow:
- Travel down Mount Cook Road and before you arrive at Mount Cook Village, you will pass a right-hand turn to Tasman Valley Road.
- The next right-hand turn will be “Hooker Valley Road,” and where you’ll want to turn.
- Then, finally, you will arrive at the Wild Horse Hill Campground and car park, where the Hooker Valley Track will begin.
The specified Car Park here is your only access to drinking water and bathrooms on the entire track. Please use these before starting the hike!
This is also a campground if you’re keen on a place to stay.
⏱️ Short on Time?
If you don’t have time to read the entire article, here is a quick summery for completing the Hooker Valley hiking trail, to get your started!
- Hooker lake is located in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, South Island, New Zealand
- The trail is 10.6 km return and starts at White Horse Hill Campground/car park. It’s easy‑moderate grade, and will take about 3 to 4 hours round-trip.
- The trail features include Mueller Lake lookout, three suspension bridges over the Hooker River, and Hooker Lake with icebergs and glacier views on clear days
- Free to visit, but Start early to avoid crowds and a full car park
- Bring layers, waterproof gear, sun protection, water, snacks and sturdy shoes
- Closest place to stay is in Mount Cook National Park, or find more Hotel options in Twizel
- Best to visit between November and March over the Summer, but a light snowfall will still be open to walk.
If this has you intrigued, then please read on for more detailed information and my personal experience.
The Hooker track is open all year round. However, weather conditions in National Park change quickly and are unpredictable. Conditions like freezing temperatures, high winds, rain, and snow will affect how much you’ll enjoy the walk.
Therefore, please get in touch with the Tourist Information Centre in Mount Cook a day or two beforehand to check.
Details are below:
- Address: 1 Larch Grove
- Phone: +64 3 435 1186
- Opening Hours: Summer (October to April) 8:30 am – 5:00 pm or Winter (May to September) 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
You can access Mount Cook National Park in a standard two-wheel drive vehicle (including Hire Cars). In any case, take care during rain or icy conditions affecting the road surface.
Note: If snow is expected, please bring your safety equipment, such as chains and traction mats.
How long is the Track & Map?
The Hooker Valley Track is 5.3 kilometers or 3.1 miles one way (10.6km/ 6.6 Miles Return). This would have to be one of the more popular hikes within the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. Along with giving you the closest overall look at New Zealand’s highest peak (Aoraki) and the Hooker Glacier.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just starting out, the Hooker Valley Track is an excellent 3 to 4-hour adventure return.
This obviously depends on your pace, rest breaks, and photo opportunities. However, If you’re anything like me, you could stop for pictures every 100 metres, so don’t rush and enjoy the moment.
It’s easy for it to take up half a day if you’re staying in the National Park. Otherwise, coming from Lake Tekapo or Twizel could be a whole day with lunch and driving time.
Note: There is a little-known side trail leading to the Hooker Hut (about 5 to 10 minutes extra), a historic mountaineering hut that has been relocated and rebuilt.
Please click here for the Hooker Valley Track Map I created for you. Although, the path is straightforward to follow, and there is no need for map navigation while you’re on the track.
This is a return track (instead of a loop), meaning you’ll return on the same path you walked in on. Consequently, you should always look out for other hikers traveling in the opposite direction to you.
Is it difficult to walk?
The Hooker Valley Trail might be 10 kilometres return. Still, the track is relatively flat and easy enough for moderate and family-friendly hikers. Overall, it’s said to only aim 100 metres (330ft) in elevation, and that’s by going up and down a lot throughout the hike.
No technical skills are needed, and I would only consider using hiking poles if you really need them for longer hikes.
Despite that, the awe-inspiring views and the stunning lakes and mountains will have you stopping all the time. This allows small rest breaks and the energy to keep on going.
If I were to gauge areas more difficult than others, it might be crossing the swing bridges (three in total). I would expect those with height issues or walking over uneven ground might find it a little difficult.
That being said, the swing bridges are reasonably sturdy and really don’t swing too much. Although, you can see below through the wooden construction, so I suggest always looking ahead and not down.
Overall, It’s a formed track made of dirt and small rocks, probably more suitable for hiking boots or closed-in footwear.
There are also areas with a boardwalk made from wood to stop vegetation wear and tear, with a small number of stairs. All of which can all be slippery in wet or snowy weather.
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Things you can see on the Hike
Mueller Lake
The Mueller Lake is the first lookout point. There’s something so captivating about listening to the sounds of the raging waters and admiring the stunning colours.
This is also where you’ll cross the first suspension bridge.
Hooker Lake
Hooker Lake is one of the more accessible lakes in Mount Cook National Park. You see it at the end of the track from a lookout point and have the opportunity to walk down to the water’s edge.
The water temperature is typically lower than 2 degrees Celsius (36F) and can freeze over in the wintertime.
Its colour has shades of blue and grey which comes from the glacial rock flour. These are silt particles in the water and make it appear cloudy.
This is your rest break area before returning to the car park. Although no bathroom facilities are here, you have a picnic table, chairs, and a rock wall to rest on.
Hooker Glacier
The Hooker Glacier can be seen in the distance from Hooker lake. It’s 11 kilometres in length, but not the largest in New Zealand. It’s rapidly melting and is expected to increase the lake by 4 kilometres eventually.
In the summer, parts of the glacier will break off and float around in the water. This makes for a charming landscape scene and the perfect photo opportunity.
Mount Cook / Aoraki
Mount Cook/Aoraki is the largest mountain in New Zealand, standing tall and proud at 3,724 metres above sea level. You can experience this incredible sight up close on the track, and it’s definitely worth the trip.
However, even in good weather, Mount Cook’s tip will likely be covered in clouds about 90% of the time.
Though don’t let this deter you; it’s still a really great hike.
The name “Aoraki” comes from the Māori language, meaning “Cloud Piercer,” and is part of the Te Wahipounamu UNESCO World Heritage site, highlighting its cultural and natural importance.
It can also be seen at a distance, from the end of Lake Pukaki or the Alpine Salmon Shop along the main highway to Lake Tekapo or Christchurch. I also recommend stopping here for the best fresh salmon – I was in heaven eating this!
Peter’s Lookout long Mount Cook Road is another brilliant spot to see the highest peak, which is where I took the photograph above!
Best time to visit? (Summer/Winter Comparison)
To get the most out of your journey and plan to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
If you go early enough, you can watch the stunning early morning sunrise over Mount Cook and share with only a handful of other walkers. If you wait until late in the day, you can savor some incredible post-sunset vistas.
Apart from that, summertime (November to March) is probably the more possible time for the track to open. Although, don’t disregard winter altogether, as it’s a wonderful time to visit if the weather conditions are good.
Summer vs. Winter Comparison
Mount Cook National Park boasts such picturesque scenery accompanied by New Zealand’s highest peak, Mt Cook. Plus, other Southern Alps and its surrounding glaciers, lakes, and streams. What more could you ask for?
But if you have yet to try it or if you’re looking forward to going there again – how will it be different walking this track during Winter compared to Summer?
What’s the Track like in Winter?
In Winter, the Hooker Valley Track is a different kind of beauty, as one can see snow-capped mountains, glacier or ice-covered lakeshores, and snow covering the tracks.
Unfortunately, winter can also bring hazardous conditions such as icy paths, strong winds, and reduced visibility.
Furthermore, if temperatures drop too low or there is too much snow on the tracks, it could mean that the Track will be closed for safety reasons.
Which is downright disappointing when you have allocated the time!
While I managed to catch the track at a snowy time and thought it was absolutely unbelievable, it can be more dangerous. There is a lot of mud around, freezing winds, and the track can be slippery.
However, the actual Lake is only reflective for photo’s during summer to late autumn, since it freezes over in winter.
If you are visiting through the winter period, please ring the Mount Cook Tourist information centre a day or two beforehand. Always check the current and most up-to-date conditions, and stay safe!
Note: If you hike in winter, do NOT walk on the lake when it’s frozen over. It’s dangerous and I urge you not to risk your life!
What’s the track like in the Summer?
The Summer period will be your more likely chance to complete the entire track. You’ll get to enjoy vibrant wildflowers and a lush, green landscape that infuses the color into your photos.
The warmer days still might need a light jacket, but you will warm up pretty quick on the hike.
However, summertime will also bring more rain, and you’ll also contend with extremely windy days.
Therefore, this is another warning to check for current weather conditions online or with the Tourist Info centre. This includes rain, wind, snow, and if the track is open!
My first time hiking in this area was incredibly windy, and it was so intense I was being pushed off the track and dust in my eyes. This is not a time I would suggest for children, and it didn’t make for a completely enjoyable experience.
Ultimately, it was so windy that I spent only 2 minutes at Hooker Lake viewpoint and didn’t even walk down to the water’s edge.
Note: Don’t dismiss an opportunity to walk back from Hooker Lake after sunset. It offers an incredible stargazing experience since the area is known for its clear night skies and viewing the Milky Way.
Where to Stay?
Mount Cook National Park
If you’re considering a holiday to Mount Cook National Park and searching for accommodation, why not stay at the closest point in the Mount Cook Village? Not only will you have convenient access to some of the best spots in the park, but you’ll be close to some impressive views.
Twizel
Heading to Twizel and looking for a place to stay? Whether it be for a weekend getaway or an extended visit, this charming small town has plenty of accommodation options for you to choose from.
You’re only a one-hour drive from Mount Cook Village, and the options here are a little more budget-friendly than at the National Park. Plus, it’s where I’ve stayed every time I’ve visited.
Not only that, but you have a grocery store, other conveniences, and more sites to see nearby.
Wrap up!
In the end, there are plenty of rewarding views and many Instagram-worthy spots that will make for some gorgeous pictures while Hiking the Hooker Valley Hiking Trail. So, pack your camera and spare battery, grab snacks, and prepare for a magnificent journey.
Thanks for reading this blog post today on hiking the Hooker Valley Track in New Zealand. I hope I’ve answered your questions, along with everything else you need to plan your trip.
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