Millennium Track Wanaka
A scenic lakeside trail offering breathtaking views of Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps, perfect for walking, running, and cycling.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds
Millennium Track Wanaka
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic lakeside trail offering breathtaking views of Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps, perfect for walking, running, and cycling.
"Get away from the annoying tourists and take this walk for incredible views and way less people!"
🚶♀️ Avoid the Tree Crowds
Head to the Millennium Track for stunning lake views with way less people than That Wanaka Tree!
👟 Wear Hiking Shoes
Recommended for comfort on this trail, especially if you plan to go further.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 62 reviews
Type
Hiking Area
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Lake Views
Along the Millennium Track
Breathtaking, ever-changing vistas of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains.
Glendhu Bay Connection
Southern end of the track
A scenic link between Wanaka town and the picturesque Glendhu Bay.
Peaceful Lakeside Stroll
Entire length of the track
A serene escape from tourist hotspots, perfect for a leisurely walk or run.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Escape the Crowds at That Wanaka Tree
Trail Etiquette & Gear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Avoid the Tree Crowds
Head to the Millennium Track for stunning lake views with way less people than That Wanaka Tree!
👟 Wear Hiking Shoes
Recommended for comfort on this trail, especially if you plan to go further.
Ran from downtown Wanaka NZ to Glendhu Bay and back this weekend!
Absolute stunner of a trail with some nice hills mixed in as well. Wasn't even planning to go this far, just started running and turned around when it seemed like a good spot to do so!
🚴♂️ Share the Path
Be aware of cyclists and practice safe etiquette on this multi-use track.
🗺️ Connect to Waterfall Creek
Easily accessible from downtown Wanaka via the Waterfall Creek track.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Avoid the Tree Crowds
Head to the Millennium Track for stunning lake views with way less people than That Wanaka Tree!
👟 Wear Hiking Shoes
Recommended for comfort on this trail, especially if you plan to go further.
🚴♂️ Share the Path
Be aware of cyclists and practice safe etiquette on this multi-use track.
🗺️ Connect to Waterfall Creek
Easily accessible from downtown Wanaka via the Waterfall Creek track.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Millennium Track for its stunning, peaceful lake and mountain views, offering a welcome escape from crowded tourist spots. It's praised for being well-maintained and suitable for various activities like walking, running, and cycling, though some note it can be more challenging than expected and advise wearing appropriate footwear.
"Do yourself a favor…get away from the annoying tourists at #thatwanakatree and take this walk/light hike around the lake for incredible views and way less people!! Take as long as you’d like, then turn around and head back. LOVED IT!"
Nicole Lowenbraun
"Just carry-on from the Waterfall Creek track from downtown Wanaka. At the outhouse, turn left, and a quick right and you will start this trail.
This trail is definitely harder than the Waterfall Creek track along the water from downtown. People were mountain biking on it, jogging and hiking.
Hiking shoes and maybe poles are a good idea. However, I did not finish it, so I have no idea what the latter part of the trail looks like.
But the views up there were astounding!"
Sherree Vickers
"Popular amongst walkers, runners, and cyclists, the Glendhu Bay Track offers a scenic journey along the shores of Lake Wanaka, linking Glendhu Bay to Wanaka town and vice versa.
This well-maintained track stretches for along the shore, with gentle ups and downs that keep the pace interesting. As you traverse the path, be mesmerized by the ever-changing panorama of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains.
This popular track is a favorite amongst cyclists as well. Be sure to maintain awareness of your surroundings and practice safe etiquette when sharing the path."
Andy Mitchell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can access the Millennium Track from Wanaka town center, often by continuing from the Waterfall Creek track. It also connects to Glendhu Bay.
Yes, it's a well-known track. Follow signs towards the lakefront and you'll find access points, often starting from the Waterfall Creek track.
There are parking areas near Glendhu Bay and potentially closer to town access points, but walking from town is a popular option.
While there isn't direct public transport to every point, you can likely reach Wanaka town center via bus and then walk to the track.
Many people start from Wanaka town and walk towards Glendhu Bay, or vice versa, depending on their preference for direction and views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Millennium Track is a public access trail and is free to use.
The track is open 24/7, as it's an outdoor public space. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and views.
There is no entrance fee. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of Lake Wanaka at no cost.
While not as common as for Roys Peak, some local tour operators might include sections of the lakefront tracks in their Wanaka itineraries.
No permits are required for general walking, running, or cycling on the Millennium Track.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
It's a well-maintained, scenic track popular with walkers, runners, and cyclists, offering beautiful lake and mountain views.
The track stretches along the shore, connecting Wanaka town to Glendhu Bay. You can choose to walk a portion or the entire length.
It's generally considered moderate, with gentle ups and downs. It's less strenuous than some of the steeper mountain hikes in the area.
Expect stunning, ever-changing panoramas of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains, especially beautiful during sunrise and sunset.
Yes, it's a popular track for cyclists as well. Remember to be aware of other users and practice safe cycling etiquette.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for spots with unobstructed lake views, especially where the mountains are reflected in the water. The sections near Glendhu Bay are also picturesque.
Early morning for soft, golden light and fewer people, or late afternoon for dramatic sunset colors.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating mountain peaks.
While not as famous as That Wanaka Tree, the sweeping lake vistas and mountain backdrops offer countless beautiful photo opportunities.
Check local drone regulations before flying. There may be restrictions in place to protect wildlife and visitor experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit