Visiting Mount Cook National Park during your road trip through New Zealand

One of the most beautiful places on New Zealand's South Island is without a doubt Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park. This national park is located in the heart of the Southern Alps and is named after Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest mountain at 3,724 metres.

The area is renowned for its rugged mountain landscapes, glaciers, crystal-clear lakes and impressive hiking trails. For many travellers, Mount Cook is an absolute must during a road trip around the South Island. Not only because of the famous hikes, but also because the route there is already stunning. Especially the road along Lake Pukaki is one you won't forget in a hurry. In clear weather you can see Mount Cook rising above the turquoise water from far away.

Mount Cook National Park is easily accessible by Campervan and sits on a logical route between Lake Tekapo, Twizel and Wanaka or Queenstown. This makes it an ideal stop during a Campervan trip through New Zealand.

What can you do at Mount Cook?

Mount Cook isn't a place where you just stop for a photo. If you love hiking, mountains and nature, you can easily spend one or two days here. Most walking tracks start around Mount Cook Village and White Horse Hill Campground.

The great thing about this area is that you don't need to be an experienced mountaineer to get spectacular views. There are short walks, accessible hikes and challenging routes for those seeking a bit more adventure.

Hooker Valley Track

The Hooker Valley Track is the most famous walk in Mount Cook National Park and for many travellers the main reason to stop here. The route runs through a wide valley towards Hooker Lake, with views of glaciers, snow-capped peaks and Aoraki / Mount Cook along the way.

During the walk you cross multiple swing bridges and are continuously surrounded by impressive mountain landscapes. At the end of the route you arrive at Hooker Lake, where in good weather you have views of Mount Cook and sometimes see icebergs floating in the water.

The walk is relatively accessible and therefore suitable for many travellers. Do bear in mind that parts of the route may be temporarily closed due to weather conditions, damage or maintenance. Therefore always check the current status with DOC or the visitor centre beforehand.

Due to its popularity, this is also the busiest walk in the area. Especially during peak season, the route can get quite crowded. Want to avoid the biggest crowds? Then Sealy Tarns is a beautiful, but more challenging alternative.

Kea Point Track

Have less time or looking for a shorter walk? Then the Kea Point Track is a very good option. This route is shorter and less strenuous than the Hooker Valley Track, but still gives you beautiful views over Mueller Lake, Mount Sefton, the Hooker Valley and Aoraki / Mount Cook.

This is an ideal walk if you're only in the area for a short time, if the weather is changeable, or if you want a beautiful hike without being on the trail for half a day.

Sealy Tarns Track

For those seeking more of a challenge, the Sealy Tarns Track is a brilliant hike. This walk is also known as the "stairway to heaven", and that's not without reason. You climb via a long series of steps upward towards the small mountain tarns of Sealy Tarns.

The climb is steep, but the view makes up for it. From the top you look out over the Hooker Valley, Mueller Lake and the surrounding mountain peaks. On a clear day this is one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Mount Cook National Park.

This hike is particularly suitable if you have a good basic fitness level and the weather cooperates.

Mueller Hut Route

The Mueller Hut Route is the most adventurous walk in this area. This route continues upwards from Sealy Tarns and takes you to Mueller Hut, one of New Zealand's most famous mountain huts.

This is not an ordinary walk, but a serious alpine hike. You need good fitness, sturdy boots, sufficient water, warm clothing and proper preparation. In winter and the shoulder seasons, snow, ice and avalanche danger can be a factor.

Want to do this hike? Always check conditions at the visitor centre beforehand. If conditions are good and you have enough experience, this is one of the most impressive hikes on the South Island.

Tasman Glacier & Blue Lakes

Besides the walks around Mount Cook Village, the Tasman Glacier is also worth a visit. This is the largest glacier in New Zealand and is located on the other side of the national park.

You can take a short walk here to a viewpoint over Tasman Lake. With a bit of luck you'll see icebergs floating in the water. The Blue Lakes are also located in this area, though these days they're often greener than blue due to changes in the landscape.

This stop is ideal if you have some extra time or want to combine a short walk with a different view of Mount Cook National Park.

Accommodation at Mount Cook

Travelling by Campervan through New Zealand, White Horse Hill Campground is one of the best places to stay overnight. This DOC campsite is located close to the starting point of several walking tracks, including the Hooker Valley Track, Kea Point Track and Sealy Tarns Track.

The location is brilliant, but bear in mind that the campsite is popular. During busy periods it can fill up quickly. If you want to be sure of a spot, make sure you arrive in good time or check in advance what the options are.

You can also stay overnight in the Twizel or Lake Tekapo area and make a day trip to Mount Cook from there.

View 'Campgrounds in New Zealand'

Practical tips for Mount Cook National Park

The weather in Mount Cook National Park can change quickly. Even in summer it can be cold, windy or rainy. Therefore always bring warm clothing, a rain jacket, good walking shoes and sufficient water. Even if you're only doing a short walk, it's wise to head out well prepared.