Best walks near Lake Tekapo offer some of the most beautiful views in New Zealand. With its clear blue waters and surrounding mountains, this place is perfect for anyone who loves being outdoors. Whether you’re just starting or you’re an experienced hiker, there are trails for everyone.
Hiking around Lake Tekapo is an amazing way to see nature up close and enjoy the beauty of the area. From easy walks to more challenging hikes, there’s something for every adventurer to enjoy.
Why Choosing Walks Near Lake Tekapo for Your Next Hiking Adventure
Choosing Lake Tekapo for your next hike means stepping into a true outdoor paradise. The area is known for its breathtaking beauty, with crystal-clear turquoise waters and towering mountains surrounding you. The clear, starry skies at night are also a huge draw for visitors.
Whether you’re on an easy walk or a more challenging trail, the views will take your breath away. Lake Tekapo offers something for everyone, making it the perfect place for hiking.
- Beautiful views: Enjoy views of sparkling blue water, snow-capped mountains, and lush greenery.
- Unique Features: Lake Tekapo’s famous turquoise waters and nearby peaks create perfect hiking landscapes.
- Starry Skies: The clear skies make it a popular spot for stargazing after your hike.
- Lake Tekapo Hiking: A variety of scenic walks around the lake for all fitness levels.
- Perfect for All: Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, you’ll find trails that suit you.
Best Walks Near Lake Tekapo Map

Top 5 Best Walks Near Lake Tekapo
Mount John Summit Track
The Mount John Summit Track is one of the most popular hikes near Lake Tekapo. This trail takes you to the top of Mount John, offering panoramic views of Lake Tekapo, the Southern Alps, and the surrounding landscapes. The hike is moderately challenging but well worth the effort, with a trail that winds through beautiful terrain.

The duration of the hike is around 3 to 4 hours, depending on your pace. As you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with incredible views, making this a must-do for any hiking enthusiast. You can read this article about Things to Do in Lake Tekapo.
- Trail Overview: A well-maintained track leading to the top of Mount John, with stunning views throughout.
- Difficulty: Moderate difficulty, suitable for hikers with a bit of experience.
- Duration: Typically takes 3-4 hours to complete.
- Key Highlights: Views of Lake Tekapo, the Southern Alps, and nearby hills; a great spot for photography.
- Best Time to Hike: Early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
The Tekapo River Walk
The Tekapo River Walk is one of the easiest and most relaxing trails near Lake Tekapo, perfect for those who want to enjoy nature without too much effort. This walk follows the Tekapo River, offering beautiful views of the water, surrounding hills, and the unique landscape.

The trail is flat and well-marked, making it suitable for walkers of all fitness levels, including families and beginners. It’s a great option for a peaceful walk while taking in the natural beauty of the area.
- Trail Overview: A gentle, flat trail that follows the Tekapo River.
- Difficulty: Easy, ideal for beginners, families, or those seeking a relaxed hike.
- Duration: Typically takes around 1-2 hours to complete.
- Key Highlights: Scenic river views, surrounding hills, and quiet, peaceful surroundings.
- Best Time to Hike: Any time of day, but early mornings or late afternoons are the most peaceful.
The Godley Peaks Track
For those looking for a more challenging hike, the Godley Peaks Track is an excellent choice. This trail takes you through a variety of terrains, from riverbeds to alpine meadows, all leading to the summit with sweeping views of Lake Tekapo and the surrounding mountains.
It’s a more strenuous hike, requiring good fitness and preparation, but the reward at the top is well worth the effort. The track is longer and steeper than many others in the area, making it ideal for experienced hikers seeking a bit of adventure.
- Trail Overview: A more challenging hike with diverse terrain and alpine views.
- Difficulty: Challenging, suitable for experienced hikers.
- Duration: Around 5-6 hours to complete.
- Key Highlights: Stunning summit views of Lake Tekapo, surrounding mountains, and valleys; diverse landscapes.
- Best Time to Hike: Summer or early autumn when the weather is more predictable and the trail is clearer.
The Lakeside Walk
The Lakeside Walk is a wonderful choice if you’re looking for a simple and peaceful hike around Lake Tekapo. This easy walk takes you along the edge of the lake, where you can enjoy stunning views of the sparkling blue water and the mountains that surround the area.
The trail is flat and easy to follow, making it perfect for families, beginners, or anyone who just wants a nice stroll. As you walk, you’ll pass through beautiful spots that are perfect for stopping and taking photos. It’s a great way to experience the beauty of Lake Tekapo without much effort.
The Roundhill Ski Area Track
The Roundhill Ski Area Track is an exciting trail for those who want to enjoy amazing views while hiking. While it’s known for skiing in winter, this trail is also a great choice during the warmer months. The hike takes you up through alpine meadows and higher elevations, where you can see beautiful views of Lake Tekapo and the Southern Alps.

Though it’s a little more challenging than some of the other trails, it’s worth it for the incredible views you’ll get. During the winter, you may even see people skiing or snowboarding as you hike. Whether you’re hiking in summer or winter, this trail gives you a chance to see the mountains and lake in a way that few others do.
- Trail Overview: This trail takes you up through alpine meadows and higher spots, offering fantastic views of Lake Tekapo and the mountains.
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging, so it’s best for hikers who have some experience and are ready for a good workout.
- Duration: It usually takes about 3 to 4 hours to finish the hike, depending on how fast you go.
- Key Highlights: Amazing mountain and lake views, alpine meadows, and the chance to see skiers in the winter.
- Best Time to Hike: Summer and autumn are the best times for hiking when the weather is nice, but if you visit in winter, you can enjoy the nearby ski area too.
Best Time to Visit For Walking Near Lake Tekapo
- Summer (December to February): Summer is the most popular time for hiking around Lake Tekapo. The weather is warm, with clear skies and great visibility for stunning views of the lake and mountains. Trails are mostly dry and easy to navigate, making it perfect for outdoor adventures.
- Autumn (March to May): Autumn is another wonderful season for hiking, with cooler temperatures and the added beauty of fall foliage. The trails are less crowded, giving you a peaceful hiking experience, and the views are still breathtaking.
- Winter (June to August): For those who enjoy snowy landscapes, winter is a unique time to hike in Lake Tekapo. Snow covers the mountains, and the trails might be more challenging. Some trails could be icy or require more preparation, but it’s a great time for winter hikes and stargazing.
- Spring (September to November): Spring is a lovely time to visit, as the weather starts to warm up, and wildflowers begin to bloom. However, some trails may still be muddy or wet from melting snow, so it’s important to check conditions before heading out.
Where to Stay Near Lake Tekapo
When planning a hike around Lake Tekapo, finding the right place to stay is important for comfort and convenience. There are several accommodation options nearby that cater to different budgets and preferences. Here are some great choices for hikers:
- Hotels and Lodges: For a comfortable and relaxing stay, consider booking a room at local hotels and lodges. Popular options like The Hermitage Hotel and Lake Tekapo Village Motel offer cozy rooms and beautiful views of the lake and mountains, making them perfect for unwinding after a day of hiking.
- Campsites: If you love camping, there are several campsites near Lake Tekapo, such as Lake Tekapo Motels & Holiday Park. These offer a great way to enjoy nature while being close to the hiking trails.
- Holiday Homes: For more space and privacy, holiday homes and vacation rentals are also available. Websites like Airbnb have a variety of properties in and around Lake Tekapo that provide a homely feel for your stay. You can also read this article about Lake Tekapo Accommodation.
- Backpacker Accommodation: If you’re on a budget, consider staying at a local backpacker hostel. YHA Lake Tekapo is a great option that provides affordable dorms and private rooms.
How to Choose The Best Walk Near Lake Tekapo
- Fitness Level: Pick a hike that matches your fitness. For beginners, choose easy trails like the Lakeside Walk. For more experienced hikers, try challenging ones like the Godley Peaks Track.
- Views: Think about the type of views you want. For lake views, go for the Lakeside Walk or Tekapo River Walk. For mountain views, try the Mount John Summit Track or Roundhill Ski Area Track.
- Length & Duration: Check the length of the hike. Shorter hikes like the Lakeside Walk take about 1-1.5 hours, while longer hikes like the Godley Peaks Track can take 5-6 hours.
- Weather: Always check the weather. In winter, some trails might be harder to access, so pick shorter hikes or lower-elevation ones.
- Interest: Choose based on what you like—peaceful walks or adventure hikes with great views.
- Accessibility: Make sure the trail is easy to access, especially if you’re with kids or need an easier path.
Tips For Booking Your Walk Near Lake Tekapo
- Check Trail Availability: Ensure the trail is open and check for any seasonal closures or permit requirements.
- Book Accommodation Early: Reserve your stay ahead of time, especially during peak seasons, as places can fill up fast.
- Consider Guided Tours: If you’re new to hiking, book a guided tour for safety and expert knowledge.
- Look for Shuttle Services: If the trail requires transport, check for shuttle services in advance.
- Book Rentals Early: Reserve hiking gear or equipment beforehand to avoid shortages.
- Look for Deals: Check for hiking packages that combine accommodation, gear, and guided tours at a discount.
Conclusion: Best Walks Near Lake Tekapo
Best walks near Lake Tekapo are perfect for anyone who loves nature and adventure. From easy walks along the lake to more challenging hikes up the mountains, there is something for everyone. The views are amazing, and you’ll get to see some of the most beautiful spots in New Zealand.
When planning your hike, think about the time of year, your fitness level, and what kind of experience you want. Always check the weather before you go to make sure you’re prepared! With a little planning, your adventure at Lake Tekapo will be unforgettable.
If you’re looking for more travel tips or hiking ideas, be sure to check out my site at discovertourplaces.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it safe to hike near Lake Tekapo?
Yes, hiking near Lake Tekapo is generally safe, but it’s important to follow safety guidelines. Always stay on marked trails, wear proper footwear, and carry enough water.
2. Can I bring my dog on the hikes around Lake Tekapo?
Many of the hiking trails around Lake Tekapo are dog-friendly, but it’s always good to check specific trail rules before you go.
3. Are there any food or snack options along the hiking trails?
There are no food stands or cafes directly along most hiking trails, so it’s best to bring your own snacks and water.
4. What should I pack for a hike near Lake Tekapo?
For a successful hike, pack essentials like sturdy shoes, water, sunscreen, a hat, and snacks. If you’re hiking in colder weather, bring extra layers of clothing.
5. Can I hike around Lake Tekapo in the winter?
Yes, you can hike around Lake Tekapo in the winter, but some trails might be icy or covered in snow, making them more challenging.