The Hooker Valley Track – not a circuit and yet it feels like one! The way there offers you beautiful views of the mountains, while the way back reveals the endless views towards Lake Pukaki. Definitely a half-day hike that will take your breath away!
Facts
The Hooker Valley Track is located in the Aoraki/ Mt. Cook National Park. The start of the hike can be found about a ten minute drive from Mount Cook Village, the closest town is Twitzel. To avoid the tourist crowds, start your hike early. It should be noted that Hooker Lake will be partially shaded at dawn. The Hooker Valley Track is about 11 kilometres long and you should schedule at least three hours for the hike. There are many different viewing platforms and indescribably beautiful panoramas, so you should take enough time to enjoy these moments. As always, it’s important to dress appropriately for the weather. Even if you get warm while hiking, the weather can change quickly and the way back could become a challenge.
The hike
The trail to Hooker Lake is suitable for beginners and has only a few uphill sections. First stop is at the Alpine Memorial, dedicated to the climbers who lost their lives on the Linda Glacier in 1914. Next, after about 20 minutes, is the Mueller Lake viewpoint, where you should definitely make a stop! You have an incredibly beautiful view of the lake as well as the mountains in the background. This is followed by three suspension bridges. These are neither scary nor dangerous and can carry up to 20 people. After hiking across the fields and crossing the bridges, you almost reach the Hooker Glacier viewpoint. You’ll find picnic tables and, of course, a wonderful view of Mt Cook and Hooker Lake. If you want to, you can descend the steeper path and end up right next to the lake. If you’re lucky, you might even spot icebergs on the lake.
