CLOSED UNTIL MID-2026

Located in the heart of Mount Cook National Park, the Hooker Valley Track is the most iconic walk in Aoraki and arguably one of the most incredible day hikes in the world. This trail follows the Hooker Valley to Hooker Lake, boasting jaw-dropping views of Mueller Glacier and Aoraki/Mount Cook (NZ’s highest mountain).

Track overview

• Difficulty: Easy

• Length: 10km return

• Time: 3 hours

This well-maintained, mostly flat trail is accessible for all fitness levels and takes you across three swing bridges and through some of the most dramatic alpine scenery in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. You’ll walk past alpine streams and glaciers before reaching the viewpoint at the end, where you’ll see Mueller Glacier and Hooker Lake, towered by Kā Tiritiri o te Moana (Southern Alps).

The lake's turquoise-grey colour comes from glacially-eroded sediment that is suspended in the water, and you’ll often see icebergs floating from the Hooker Glacier. The lake can freeze over completely in the winter, but please do not walk on it! It’s incredibly dangerous, and risking your life also puts our rescuers in danger.

Personal tip: The Hooker Valley Track isn't very long so I recommend doing the Blue Lakes and Tasman Glacier Lookout Track afterwards. It's stunning.

How to get here

The Hooker Valley Track is located at the end of Hooker Valley Road off State Highway 80. You’ll begin your walk at the Aoraki/Mount Cook Visitor Centre or White Horse Hill DOC campground and then follow the track until you reach Hooker Lake.