The best walking and hiking trails around Wānaka

A Guide to Our Favourite Walks and Hikes Near Wānaka

If you’re visiting Wānaka, it’d be a shame to miss out on the incredible natural beauty that surrounds you. From alpine meadows and crystal-clear lakes to towering mountain peaks, here’s our guide to the best hikes around Wanaka.

Diamond Lake and Rocky Mountain

A short 20-minute drive out of Wānaka brings you to Diamond Lake and Rocky Mountain, home to several iconic walking tracks. The area offers something for everyone, from leisurely lakeside strolls to challenging mountain climbs.

• Diamond Lake Circuit Track: A peaceful loop around Diamond Lake, perfect for a relaxing walk through the bush, with optional bike access. The circuit offers views of the lake and surrounding mountains, and if you’re up for it, take a 10-minute detour to a viewpoint above the lake.
• Rocky Mountain Summit Track: For those looking for a challenge, this 3-hour track climbs 775 meters to the summit, offering panoramic views of Wānaka and beyond. It’s a moderate to hard hike, but the reward is a 360-degree vista of the surrounding mountains, lakes, and valleys.

Roy’s Peak Track

Roy’s Peak is one of the most famous hikes in Wānaka, known for its stunning views of Lake Wānaka, Mount Aspiring, and the Southern Alps.

This 16km return track is a challenging hike, with a steep ascent that takes around 5-6 hours. Starting from the Roy’s Peak car park, the hike ascends through tussock grasslands, offering sweeping views as you go. The track is often busy, so we recommend starting early to catch the sunrise at the Roy’s Peak Viewpoint, where you’ll get the classic, Instagram-worthy shot of Lake Wānaka and its surrounding mountains.

For a quieter, less-crowded experience, consider Isthmus Peak, which offers similar views with fewer people.

Beacon Point Walk

We have many families staying at our Wānaka accommodation, many of whom would not be able to complete the likes of the Roy’s Peak Track with kids in tow. For those with young children who are looking for a simple leisurely stroll, we always recommend Beacon Point. It’s a flat, easy stroll along the lakeside, taking you between Beacon Point and Bremner Bay.

This 30-minute walk is perfect for a morning or evening outing, offering tranquil views of Lake Wānaka and the surrounding mountains. Bring a picnic and enjoy the serenity, or take a dip in the clear waters. It’s pram-friendly and one of the most relaxed ways to experience Wānaka's natural beauty.

Mount Iron

If you’re looking for something between a leisurely walk and a strenuous hike, Mount Iron is perfect. This 4.5km loop track takes you 200 meters above sea level, offering expansive views of Wānaka and its surrounding landscapes.

While the hike is steep in places, the summit offers stunning vistas of Lake Wānaka, Albert Town, and the surrounding ranges. The track is well-formed and suitable for families, making it one of the most accessible yet rewarding walks near Wānaka. Plus, it's dog-friendly, so bring your furry friend along for the adventure!

The Outlet Track

For a leisurely walk that still offers great views of Lake Wānaka and the Clutha River, the Outlet Track is ideal. Starting at the Lake Outlet, this flat, tree-lined trail takes you alongside the river towards Albert Town, with plenty of spots to pause and enjoy the scenery.

The track is 6km one way, but it can be shortened by walking to the Albert Town Bridge. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a shorter, relaxing walk with easy access from Wānaka town center.

Rob Roy Glacier Track

The Rob Roy Glacier Track is a relatively easy 10km hike in Mount Aspiring National Park, making it perfect for those who want to experience Wānaka's rugged terrain without the intensity of a full-day hike.

Starting from the Raspberry Creek car park, the trail follows the river valley through beautiful beech forest before crossing a swing bridge. It continues up to a viewpoint overlooking the stunning Rob Roy Glacier, waterfalls, and alpine landscapes. This track is a great half-day hike that offers a serene experience without the crowds.

Glendhu Bay Track

For a more adventurous walk, the Glendhu Bay Track is a fantastic option. Stretching 15km one way, this scenic trail follows the shoreline of Lake Wānaka, offering breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

The track is well-formed, but there are a few short climbs that will get your heart rate up. For a more leisurely option, consider walking just part of the track to Damper Bay, a peaceful spot perfect for a swim or picnic. The full trail takes around 3-4 hours each way, and it’s also a popular route for mountain bikers, so be mindful of cyclists along the way.

Brewster Hut

For those looking for a more technical and adventurous challenge, Brewster Hut is a must-do. This 10km hike (6.2 miles) starts from Fantail Falls, over an hour’s drive from Wanaka. The trail involves crossing the Haast River and a steep, technical climb up to Brewster Hut.

It’s a challenging hike, but the reward is a beautiful alpine hut with incredible views of the surrounding glaciers and peaks. For those looking for an overnight experience, this is an unforgettable adventure, with the option to hike out the next day

Eely Point Track

For a short, easy walk, the Eely Point Track is one of the best options. Starting from Wānaka's town center, it takes you along the lakefront and through Eely Point Reserve to a quiet spot by the water.

It’s a lovely 20-minute walk with great views of the lake and mountains. The track is flat and suitable for all ages, making it a perfect option for a casual stroll. Afterwards, you can head to nearby Bremner Bay for a swim or picnic.

With so many stunning walks and hikes to choose from, Tasman Holiday Parks — Wānaka truly offers something for every type of outdoor enthusiast. Whether you’re hiking to summits for panoramic views or enjoying a relaxing stroll along the lake, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in nature.