Waterfall Creek Track Wanaka
A scenic, flat walk along Lake Wanaka, famous for the iconic Wanaka Tree and stunning mountain views. Perfect for all fitness levels.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid midday sun
Waterfall Creek Track Wanaka
Best Time
Avoid midday sun
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic, flat walk along Lake Wanaka, famous for the iconic Wanaka Tree and stunning mountain views. Perfect for all fitness levels.
"A lovely walk with great views of lake Wanaka, perfect for all fitness levels."
📸 Snap the Wanaka Tree
Don't miss the iconic lone tree in the lake – it's a must-have photo op!
👟 Extend Your Hike
For panoramic views, continue to Glendu Bay trail. Wear hiking shoes!
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.6 · 80 reviews
Type
Hiking Area
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Famous Wanaka Tree
Along the track
Capture an iconic photo with the solitary willow tree emerging from the lake waters.
Lake Wanaka Views
Throughout the walk
Enjoy continuous, picturesque vistas of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains.
Hidden Cave Discovery
Short walk from car park
Discover a charming hidden cave, a quick and rewarding detour for explorers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Trail Etiquette & Footwear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Snap the Wanaka Tree
Don't miss the iconic lone tree in the lake – it's a must-have photo op!
👟 Extend Your Hike
For panoramic views, continue to Glendu Bay trail. Wear hiking shoes!
☀️ Seek Shade
The track has little shade; visit early or late to avoid heat.
🚗 Access Road
If starting from the far side, be prepared for a short, unsealed road.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Snap the Wanaka Tree
Don't miss the iconic lone tree in the lake – it's a must-have photo op!
👟 Extend Your Hike
For panoramic views, continue to Glendu Bay trail. Wear hiking shoes!
☀️ Seek Shade
The track has little shade; visit early or late to avoid heat.
🚗 Access Road
If starting from the far side, be prepared for a short, unsealed road.
🚻 Toilets Available
Public restrooms are conveniently located at the track's end.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Waterfall Creek Track for its easy, flat terrain and stunning, continuous views of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains. The iconic Wanaka Tree is a major draw for photos. Some find the lack of shade uncomfortable during hot summer days, and recommend sturdy shoes if venturing onto the more challenging Glendu Bay trail.
"No shade so too hot for me so we have up less than half way. would be outstanding on a dry winters day. Views are excellent"
Richard Howard
"A lovely walk with great views of lake wanaka (you are at the level of the lake for the duration of the walk).
The path is flat with no significant changes in elevation.
If starting at the far side and walking towards wanaka there is approx 500m or so if unsealed road to drive down.
It's a great walk for people with any level of fitness."
Stewart McDonald
"Very easy trail that follows the coastline, and you will walk right by the famous Wanaka tree.
You should definitely do it!
Continue past the washroom and turn right if you want to continue onto a bit more of a challenging trail. And you will get way higher to see amazing, panoramic views! That trail is called Glendu Bay and has some good elevation in it, and a bit unstable under the feet, so wear your hiking shoes."
Sherree Vickers
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Waterfall Creek Track is easily accessible from Wanaka. If starting from the far side, there's an unsealed road of about 500m to drive down. It's a straightforward drive from the town center, making it a convenient option for visitors.
Yes, parking is available, particularly if you start from the end closer to town. The unsealed road access from the other side also leads to parking areas.
Yes, you can walk to the Waterfall Creek Track from Wanaka town. The trail follows the coastline, and you'll walk right by the famous Wanaka Tree, making it a pleasant stroll from town.
You can access the Waterfall Creek Walk from multiple points along the lakefront. Many visitors start near the famous Wanaka Tree or drive down the unsealed road for a different starting perspective.
While not directly serviced by extensive public transport routes to the trailhead, it's a walkable distance from Wanaka town center, making it accessible without a car if you enjoy a stroll.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Waterfall Creek Track is a public access area and does not require any tickets or entry fees. It's a free and open natural attraction for everyone to enjoy.
The Waterfall Creek Track is open 24/7, as it's an outdoor walking trail. You can visit at any time of day or night, though daylight hours are recommended for safety and enjoyment.
There is no admission fee for the Waterfall Creek Walk. It's a free public reserve, allowing visitors to explore its scenic beauty without any cost.
Yes, Waterfall Creek Track is accessible and enjoyable in winter. Many find it to be a pleasant time to visit due to cooler temperatures, though be mindful of potential frost.
No booking requirements are necessary for Waterfall Creek Track. It's a natural trail that you can simply walk onto and explore at your leisure.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The Waterfall Creek Track is considered very easy. It's a flat, coastal walk with no significant elevation changes, making it suitable for all fitness levels.
The duration depends on your pace and if you extend to other trails. The main track can be completed in about an hour, but you might spend longer enjoying the views or exploring.
Yes, there are public toilets available, conveniently located at the end of the track.
The track offers limited shade, so it can get quite hot during summer afternoons. Visiting in the morning or late afternoon is recommended to avoid the strongest sun.
While the track runs alongside Lake Wanaka, direct swimming access might vary. It's best to find designated swimming spots if you wish to take a dip. The focus of the track is the walk and views.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo spot is the famous Wanaka Tree emerging from the lake. Continuous lake and mountain views also offer stunning photographic opportunities throughout the walk.
Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light for photography, with softer shadows and beautiful golden hour hues. Avoid midday sun for more dramatic shots.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local bylaws and DOC (Department of Conservation) guidelines before flying a drone in the area to ensure compliance.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake and mountain scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details. Don't forget a polarizing filter for vibrant lake shots.
Beyond the famous tree and lake views, keep an eye out for the hidden cave, which can make for an interesting and unique photograph.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit