Top Hikes in Mount Cook National Park 2025: Explore New Zealand

Hikes in Mount Cook National Park are some of the best in New Zealand. This park has tall mountains, glaciers, and beautiful trails for everyone. You can go on easy walks or try harder climbs.

In this guide, you’ll find the best trails, tips for hiking, maps, and places to stay. Let’s explore the amazing beauty of Mount Cook National Park.

Why Choose Mount Cook National Park for Hiking?

Choosing hikes in Mount Cook National Park is a fantastic way to experience the beauty of New Zealand. This park is famous for its towering mountains, sparkling glaciers, and stunning views. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, there’s a trail for everyone to enjoy.

Why this park is perfect for hiking:

• Incredible views of Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak.
• Trails for all levels, from easy walks to challenging climbs.
• A chance to see glaciers, alpine lakes, and rare wildlife.
• Beautiful landscapes year-round, with each season offering something unique.

Mount Cook Hike Map

When you go for hikes in Mount Cook National Park​, it’s important to have a map. This will help you find your way and make sure you don’t get lost. You can get maps at the visitor center or use apps on your phone to help guide you.

Important things to know

• Maps at the Visitor Center: Get maps from the Mount Cook Visitor Center.
• Online Maps: You can also download maps before your trip.
• GPS & Apps: Use apps like Maps. me or AllTrails to help you while hiking.
• Stay Safe: Having a map helps you know where to go and stay safe.

Tips:

• Time: Know how long your hike will take.
• Difficulty: Pick a trail that’s right for you.
• Tech: Use a GPS or app for extra help.

Mount Cook Day Hikes

Hooker Valley Track

The Hooker Valley Track is one of the easiest and most beautiful hikes in Mount Cook National Park​. This trail is perfect for beginners and families. It takes you through valleys, over fun swing bridges, and ends at the peaceful Hooker Lake, where you can see Mount Cook up close. The views along the way are amazing, with glaciers, rivers, and snow-capped peaks all around.

Details:

• Time: About 3 hours (round trip).
• Difficulty: Easy, suitable for all levels.
• Best Part: Stunning views of Hooker Lake and Mount Cook.
• Tip: Go early to enjoy the quiet and take great photos!

Tasman Glacier View Walk

The Tasman Glacier View Walk is a short and simple hike that’s great for everyone. This trail gives you a chance to see the Tasman Glacier, the largest in New Zealand, along with the beautiful mountains around it.

It’s a quick but rewarding walk with incredible views. It’s one of the best hikes in Mount Cook National Park​ for those who want a beautiful experience without too much difficulty.

Details:

• Time: About 30 minutes (round trip).
• Difficulty: Very easy, suitable for all ages.
• Best Part: Amazing views of the glacier and the surrounding peaks.
• Tip: Wear good shoes, as some parts can be rocky.

Red Tarns Track

The Red Tarns Track is a bit more challenging but worth it. This hike in Mount Cook National Park​ takes you up steep steps to a stunning spot where you’ll see small red ponds (tarns) and incredible views of Mount Cook.

It’s great for people who love a little workout while hiking. The effort is rewarded with amazing views and a sense of achievement.

Details:

• Time: About 2 hours (round trip).
• Difficulty: Moderate, with some steep climbing.
• Best Part: Stunning views of Mount Cook and the red tarns.
• Tip: Bring water and take breaks on the way up.

Mount Cook Summit Hike

The Mount Cook Summit hike is one of the most challenging and exciting hikes in Mount Cook National Park​. This trail is not for beginners—it’s meant for experienced climbers who are ready to take on New Zealand’s highest peak.

The hike offers an unforgettable adventure, with breathtaking views of glaciers, mountains, and valleys. However, it requires proper planning, as it’s a technical climb with unpredictable weather.

Details:

• Time: Several days (depending on route and weather).
• Difficulty: Very challenging, suitable for experienced climbers only.
• The best part is reaching the summit of Mount Cook with unbeatable views.
• Tip: You must have climbing experience and the right equipment. Hiring a guide is highly recommended for safety.

Best Hikes in Mount Cook National Park During Winter

Winter hikes in Mount Cook National Park​ are a special treat for those who love snowy landscapes and quiet trails. While the cold weather can make the hikes a little more difficult, they also make the views even more beautiful.

Snow covers the mountains, lakes freeze, and the whole park looks like a winter wonderland. If you’re ready to hike in the winter, some trails are perfect for this season, and they offer incredible sights that you won’t see at other times of the year.

Hooker Valley Track (Winter)

The Hooker Valley Track is one of the best hikes in Mount Cook National Park​, especially during winter. The trail is not too difficult and still gives you amazing views of Mount Cook with snow all around.

You’ll also see Hooker Lake, which is frozen and looks different from how it looks in warmer months. Even though it can be a little slippery in winter, it’s still an easy trail that’s perfect for those who want a winter hike.

Details:

• Time: About 3 hours (round trip).
• Difficulty: Easy, but the trail can be slippery, so take care.
• Best Part: Seeing Mount Cook and the frozen Hooker Lake covered in snow.
• Tip: Wear warm, waterproof shoes and check the weather before you go.

Tasman Glacier View Walk (Winter)

The Tasman Glacier View Walk is another great winter hike. It’s a short and easy trail that takes you to amazing views of the Tasman Glacier. In winter, the glaciers and mountains look even more beautiful with snow.

This trail is easy for anyone, and it’s perfect for a quick walk while enjoying the winter beauty of Mount Cook National Park​. It’s one of the best hikes in Mount Cook National Park​ to see the snow and enjoy nature.

Details:

• Time: About 30 minutes (round trip).
• Difficulty: Easy, suitable for everyone.
• The best part is the incredible views of the glacier surrounded by snow-covered mountains.
• Tip: Dress warmly in layers, and bring crampons for extra grip on icy spots.

Mount Cook Hike Time

When planning hikes in Mount Cook National Park​, it’s important to know how long the trails take. The time it takes to complete each hike depends on the trail’s length and difficulty. Some hikes are short and easy, while others are longer and more challenging.

For those looking to explore several trails in a day, combining hikes is a great way to make the most of your time. It’s also important to think about the best time of day to hike so you can enjoy the views and good weather.

Time for Popular Hikes

• Hooker Valley Track: About 3 hours (round trip).
• Tasman Glacier View Walk: About 30 minutes (round trip).
• Red Tarns Track: About 2 hours (round trip).
• Mueller Hut Route: 6-8 hours (round trip, more challenging).

Combining Hikes for Ambitious Trekkers

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can combine multiple hikes in one day. For example, you could start with the Hooker Valley Track in the morning and then hike the Tasman Glacier View Walk in the afternoon.

Just make sure to plan your time carefully and be prepared for a full day of hiking. This is a great way to see more of the beautiful hikes in Mount Cook National Park​ in one go.

Best Time of Day to Hike

• Morning: The weather is often calmer, and the trails are quieter, making it a great time to hike.
• Afternoon: The views can be more dramatic as the sun moves across the sky, but be prepared for more crowds.
• Tip: Always start early to avoid the heat and crowds, especially if you’re doing longer hikes.

Best Hikes in Mount Cook National Park

There are many amazing hikes in Mount Cook National Park​, each offering beautiful views and different experiences. Whether you’re just starting or you’ve hiked for years, the park has something for everyone.

The trails range from easy walks to tough climbs, so you can find the perfect hike based on what you want to see and how much time you have.

Mueller Hut Route

The Mueller Hut Route is one of the hardest but most rewarding hikes in Mount Cook National Park​. It’s a long and steep trail that takes you up to the Mueller Hut, where you’ll get the most amazing views of Mount Cook and the surrounding mountains.

This hike is great for experienced hikers who are ready for a real challenge. You’ll see glaciers and tall peaks that make all the hard work worth it.

Details:

• Time: 6-8 hours (round trip).
• Difficulty: Hard, for experienced hikers only.
• The best part is the beautiful views from the Mueller Hut, including Mount Cook.
• Tip: Be ready for a tough hike and bring enough water and snacks.

Sealy Tarns Track

The Sealy Tarns Track is another great hike in Mount Cook National Park​. It’s a bit tough because it’s steep, but it’s not as long as the Mueller Hut Route. As you climb, you’ll see amazing views of the mountains and valleys below.

When you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Mount Cook and the surrounding area. It’s perfect for hikers who want a challenge without taking on a super long trail.

Details:

• Time: 3-4 hours (round trip).
• Difficulty: Moderate, with a steep climb.
• The best Part is the incredible view of Mount Cook at the top.
• Tip: Take your time and rest if you need to—it’s a steep climb.

Hooker Valley Track

If you want an easy and beautiful hike, the Hooker Valley Track is one of the best hikes in Mount Cook National Park​. It’s perfect for families or beginners because it’s an easy walk with no big climbs.

The trail takes you through valleys, over swing bridges, and to Hooker Lake, where you can see Mount Cook up close. This hike is great if you want to see beautiful views without spending too much time or energy.

Details:

• Time: About 3 hours (round trip).
• Difficulty: Easy, good for all levels.
• Best Part: The stunning view of Hooker Lake and Mount Cook.
• Tip: Try to start early in the morning to enjoy the quiet before it gets busy.

Mount Cook Accommodation

When you visit Mount Cook National Park​, you’ll find plenty of accommodation options that suit different needs and budgets. Whether you prefer a luxury lodge or a budget-friendly camping site, there’s something for everyone.

Staying near the park means you can enjoy the beautiful surroundings and easy access to the hiking trails, making your visit even more special. This makes your experience of hikes in Mount Cook National Park​ even more enjoyable and convenient.

Luxury Lodges

If you’re looking for a comfortable stay, there are several luxury lodges near Mount Cook National Park​. One of the most popular is The Hermitage Hotel, which offers stunning views of Mount Cook from your room.

You can enjoy great food, modern amenities, and a relaxing atmosphere. It’s perfect for those who want a more luxurious experience after a day of hiking in Mount Cook National Park​.

Details:

• Price Range: Expensive, depending on the room and season.
• Best Part: Gorgeous views of Mount Cook from your room.
• Tip: Book early to secure a room, especially in peak season.

Camping Sites

Camping is a great budget-friendly option. Several campsites are near Mount Cook National Park​ , where you can enjoy the outdoors and save money.

Whether you choose a basic site or one with a bit more comfort, camping is an affordable way to experience the park’s beauty and enjoy the nearby hikes in Mount Cook National Park​.

Details:

• Price Range: Affordable, depending on the site.
• The best part is being close to nature and the trails.
• Tip: Make sure to check the weather and pack warm gear for colder nights.

Accommodations for Hikers

If you’re planning on doing a lot of hiking, there are accommodations near the trailheads that make it easy to start your hike early in the morning. Some huts and lodges are located close to the trails, offering a great place to rest after a long day of hiking

 Staying close to the trailheads also gives you more time to enjoy the park’s natural beauty and the hikes in Mount Cook National Park​.

Details:

• Price Range: Varies depending on the accommodation.
• The best Part is easy access to trails and great for early starts.
• Tip: If you plan to stay in a hut, make sure to book in advance as they can fill up quickly.

Conclusion: Hikes in Mount Cook National Park

Hikes in Mount Cook National Park​ are some of the most beautiful and exciting you can do in New Zealand. Whether you want an easy walk or a harder climb, the park has something for everyone. The views of the mountains and nature will make your trip unforgettable. After your hikes, you can relax in comfortable places, from luxury hotels to simple campsites, all close to the park.

If you’re planning to visit Mount Cook, visit discovertourplaces.com for more tips and information to help you plan your adventure. Your perfect hike is waiting.

FAQs

1. When is the best time to hike in Mount Cook National Park?

The best time to hike is in the summer, from December to February when the weather is warmer. You can also hike in spring and autumn, but it might be colder and there could be snow in higher places.

2. Can I join a guided hike in Mount Cook National Park?

Yes, you can join a guided hike if you want help and safety on the trails. Guides will show you the way and give you helpful information about the park.

3. Is it safe to hike in winter?

Winter hikes can be harder because of snow and ice. You need the right gear, like warm clothes and shoes with good grip. Only experienced hikers should try winter hikes.

4. Can I bring my dog on the trails?

No, dogs are not allowed on the trails in Mount Cook National Park​. This helps protect the animals and nature in the park.

5. Are there easy hikes for families?

Yes, the Hooker Valley Track is an easy hike for families. It’s flat and not too hard, making it a great choice for kids and anyone who wants an easy walk with beautiful views.