Hooker Valley Track and Its Views of Mt Cook

The cheapest and easiest way to get terrific views of Mt Cook is by walking the Hooker Valley Track. Advertised as one of the best walks in New Zealand, a walk is all it really is. We were hoping for a hiking trail, with boulders, rocky trails, and some challenging terrain to cross. Instead, we walked along perfectly groomed gravel trails and boardwalks over marshy areas.

Tyler and Kara were rather bored with this hike. They were ready for rock scrambles and steep ascents, things New Zealand has not been delivering on so far.

The Hooker Valley Track, an easy walking trail that can be done in three to four hours round trip, is still very worthwhile, even though Tyler and Kara may not agree. We had a fabulous day with hardly a cloud in the sky, perfect for seeing the Mt Cook peak. Tim and I appreciated the views and another chance to get out and get some exercise. Maybe next time we come back we will go helihiking…Tyler and Kara may actually find this interesting.

About the Hooker Valley Track

The Hooker Valley Track is located in Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park. It is a 5 km track with only 80 meters of climbing. The trail is a mixture of gravel paths and boardwalks. It is more of a walk than a hike, great for people of all ages and fitness levels. The entire walk takes between 3 and 4 hours, including stops for photos and views of the lake with Mt Cook in the background.

For more on the hike, go to New Zealand’s Department of Conservation website. 

More Information about New Zealand

NEW ZEALAND ROAD TRIP: With 3 weeks in New Zealand, visit the highlights on a road trip to the North Island and South Island. If you have less time, you can shorten this itinerary by spending 2 weeks on the South Island.

SOUTH ISLAND: On the South Island of New Zealand, visit Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound, go bungy jumping in Queenstown, hike the Hooker Valley Track, visit Akaroa and Banks Peninsula, and go on a helicopter flight to see Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers from the sky.

ROUTEBURN TRACK: The Routeburn Track is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks. It is one of the best hikes we have done in the world. It is typically done as a multi-day trek but can be completed in one day if you are very fit and fast.

ADVENTURES IN NEW ZEALAND: Go bungy jumping, hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, spend one day in Abel Tasman National Park, take a helicopter ride over Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, and go paragliding and jet boat riding in Queenstown.

MORE GREAT HIKES FROM AROUND THE WORLD: For a list of great hiking trails from around the world, check out our 20 Best Day Hikes in the World article. We also have a guide to the Best Hikes in Europe and 20 Great Day Hikes in the US National Parks.