Hooker Valley Track
An iconic, mostly flat 10km walk in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park leading to glacial lakes and stunning mountain vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Hooker Valley Track
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic, mostly flat 10km walk in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park leading to glacial lakes and stunning mountain vistas.
"The views are definitely worth it, even with partial closures!"
Check Trail Status First
The second bridge is closed. Confirm current access before you arrive to avoid disappointment.
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Crucial for icy patches! Waterproof hiking or winter shoes are highly recommended.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
First Swing Bridge
Approx. 1 km from White Horse Hill Carpark
Cross this iconic suspension bridge for stunning valley and mountain views. A great photo spot!
+1
Glacial Lake Views
End of accessible track
Witness the breathtaking glacial lake with floating icebergs and majestic mountain backdrops.
+1
Aoraki/Mount Cook Views
Throughout the track
Be surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, offering a truly awe-inspiring natural spectacle.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Bridge Closures & Trail Status
+3Footwear is Key!
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Trail Status First
The second bridge is closed. Confirm current access before you arrive to avoid disappointment.
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Crucial for icy patches! Waterproof hiking or winter shoes are highly recommended.
Pack for All Weather
Conditions can change rapidly. Be prepared for rain, wind, and sun.
Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can fill up, especially for RVs/campers. Arrive early for the best spots.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Trail Status First
The second bridge is closed. Confirm current access before you arrive to avoid disappointment.
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Crucial for icy patches! Waterproof hiking or winter shoes are highly recommended.
Pack for All Weather
Conditions can change rapidly. Be prepared for rain, wind, and sun.
Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can fill up, especially for RVs/campers. Arrive early for the best spots.
Bring Your Camera
Every step offers a photo opportunity with stunning mountain and lake scenery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Hooker Valley Track for its breathtaking scenery, with many calling it one of New Zealand's most beautiful walks. The accessible portion offers stunning views of glacial lakes and Aoraki/Mount Cook. However, the permanent closure of the second swing bridge is a significant drawback for those expecting the full 10km experience, and proper footwear is essential due to icy conditions.
"It was rather unfortunate that we arrived without blue skies and instead greeted with light rain and heavy winds, though we still managed to brace through that and got ourselves a view of the famous suspension bridge. Given that the second bridge was under maintenance and not opened to the public, the entire route took no more than an hour, on a well paved walk way that’s pretty easy to trek along. The light rain and heavy winds made for quite the unpleasant experience for sure, but the views were still decent - a majestic space with a gloomy backdrop."
YY
"I visited this track today and really enjoyed the beautiful scenery along the way — the views are definitely worth it! Unfortunately, the track was closed about halfway through, just before the second swinging bridge, which was a bit disappointing.
One thing to note: I saw lots of people wearing casual sneakers and slipping around on the icy parts of the trail like ice skaters. If you’re planning to go, I highly recommend wearing proper hiking or winter shoes. It makes a big difference and helps you feel much more confident walking on the ice and snow."
Kamil Adamski
"Beautiful walking track with few small climbs with steps in between. Total trek time is about 3 hrs, unfortunately I couldn't complete the full trek as I reached late in the evening. Walked till the first bridge. The views and atmosphere is fantastic.
Hopefully will be back again to complete the trek"
Sajeev Thomas
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The track starts at the White Horse Hill campground/carpark in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. It's about a 3-hour drive north of Queenstown or a scenic drive from Christchurch.
Yes, there is a carpark at White Horse Hill campground. It can get busy, especially with RVs and campers, so arriving early is recommended.
The track is primarily designed for walkers. Some reviews mention concerns about bikes on stairways, suggesting it's not ideal or permitted.
The most common way is by car. Public transport options are limited, so renting a car or joining a tour is advisable for flexibility.
Direct public transport to the trailhead is limited. Many visitors opt for rental cars or organized tours from major South Island cities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park and the Hooker Valley Track is free. There are no admission fees.
The track is open 24/7, but it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and the best views.
The track is generally open, but sections can be closed due to maintenance or weather. The second swing bridge is permanently closed. Always check the Department of Conservation (DOC) website for current status.
The Hooker Valley Track is a free activity. You only need to consider costs for transportation and any personal gear.
Yes, several tour operators offer guided walks of the Hooker Valley Track, providing insights into the local flora, fauna, and geology.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The full track is 10 km return and typically takes 3-4 hours. However, due to the bridge closure, the accessible part takes about 1-2 hours return.
The accessible part of the track is relatively flat and considered easy, suitable for most fitness levels and beginners.
Key sights include three suspension bridges (though the second is closed), glacial lakes, and stunning views of Aoraki/Mount Cook and surrounding peaks.
Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking or winter shoes for grip on potentially icy or wet surfaces. Layers of clothing are recommended due to changing weather.
Yes, there are toilet facilities available at the start of the track near the White Horse Hill campground.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings can offer beautiful sunrise light and fewer crowds. Late afternoons can also provide stunning golden hour light on the mountains.
The suspension bridges, the glacial lake with icebergs, and panoramic views of Aoraki/Mount Cook are prime photography locations.
A smartphone camera is sufficient for most visitors, but a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a wide-angle lens can capture the grand landscapes effectively.
Expect dramatic mountain vistas, reflections in glacial lakes, unique iceberg formations, and scenic shots of the suspension bridges.
Drone usage is generally restricted in National Parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Check DOC guidelines for specific regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1While the full 10km track is currently shortened, the 1-2 hour return walk to the first swing bridge is manageable for most children. The novelty of crossing the suspension bridge and the stunning mountain views will likely keep them engaged. Pack snacks and water, and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Consider packing your own lunch and snacks to save money on dining out. If you're on a road trip, the White Horse Hill campground offers overnight parking, which can be a cost-effective option if you plan to explore the area over multiple days.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Experiment with different times of day to catch the best light – sunrise and sunset are particularly magical. A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to do justice to the vast panoramas. Be prepared for all weather conditions, as dramatic skies can enhance your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Closures: What to Expect
+3While this limits the full trek, the accessible portion still offers incredible views of the valley and surrounding mountains. Many visitors find this section alone to be highly rewarding. It's crucial to check the Department of Conservation (DOC) website for the most up-to-date information on track status before your visit to manage expectations.
+3For those seeking longer walks, alternative trails within Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park are available. These include the Kea Point Walk and the Tasman Glacier View Track, offering different perspectives of the park's dramatic landscapes.
+1Footwear and Weather: Essential Preparations
Weather in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is notoriously changeable. Visitors should be prepared for a range of conditions, from bright sunshine to heavy rain and strong winds, sometimes all within the same day. Layering clothing is key, allowing you to adjust to temperature fluctuations. Bringing a waterproof jacket and trousers is advisable, even if the forecast looks clear.
This preparedness ensures a more comfortable and safer experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the breathtaking scenery without being hindered by the elements. The suspension bridges, while iconic, can sway noticeably in high winds, adding to the adventurous feel of the walk.
Capturing the Magic: Photography Tips
+1For the best light, consider visiting in the early morning for sunrise hues on the peaks or in the late afternoon for the warm glow of golden hour. While a smartphone camera can capture the beauty, a wide-angle lens on a DSLR or mirrorless camera will better convey the vastness of the landscape.
Remember to check the weather forecast, as dramatic skies can add incredible mood to your photographs. Be mindful of other visitors and always prioritize safety when composing your shots, especially near the bridges or the lake.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit