Discover the Majestic Lake Harris: A Hiker's Paradise
Explore Lake Harris in Mount Aspiring National Park, a stunning alpine lake surrounded by breathtaking scenery and diverse wildlife, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
Nestled in New Zealand's stunning Mount Aspiring National Park, Lake Harris is a breathtaking hiking destination that offers awe-inspiring views, diverse wildlife, and a serene atmosphere. Perfect for adventurers and nature lovers alike, the Routeburn Track leads you through lush landscapes to this hidden gem that promises unforgettable memories.
A brief summary to Lake Harris
- Mount Aspiring National Park, Routeburn Track, Mount Aspiring National Park, 9372, NZ
- Visit website
Local tips
- Start your hike early in the morning to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and avoid the crowds.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited places to replenish supplies along the trail.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots and dress in layers to accommodate changing weather conditions.
- Don’t forget your camera; the views at Lake Harris are truly breathtaking and worthy of capturing.
- Check the weather forecast before your hike, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
Getting There
-
Car
If you're driving, start from Wanaka. Take the Mount Aspiring Road (State Highway 90) heading towards the Mount Aspiring National Park. Continue for approximately 54 kilometers until you reach the Raspberry Flat car park. This is where you'll find the Routeburn Track entrance. Parking here is free, but ensure you arrive early as spaces can fill up quickly.
-
Hiking
From Raspberry Flat car park, begin your hike on the Routeburn Track. The distance to Lake Harris is about 12 kilometers one way, which typically takes around 4-5 hours. The track is well-marked and offers stunning views along the way. Follow the signs directing you to Lake Harris, keeping an eye out for the turn-off to the lake approximately halfway along the route.
-
Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, you can take a bus from Queenstown to Glenorchy. Once in Glenorchy, you will need to arrange for a shuttle service to Raspberry Flat car park, as public buses do not travel directly to the park. Shuttle services are available and typically cost around NZD 30-50 per person. Make sure to book your shuttle in advance to ensure availability.
-
Hiking
Upon reaching Lake Harris, take time to enjoy the scenery. The lake is a beautiful spot for a picnic or simply to soak in the tranquil environment. Remember to pack adequate supplies, as there are no facilities available at the lake.
Discover more about Lake Harris
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Routeburn Falls Hut
1.8 km
Discover the tranquility of Routeburn Falls Hut in Mount Aspiring National Park, your gateway to New Zealand's stunning landscapes and hiking adventures.
Routeburn Flats Hut
3.0 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Routeburn Flats Hut, a perfect retreat for hikers in the breathtaking Mount Aspiring National Park.
Routeburn Track Trailhead (Routeburn Shelter)
8.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Fiordland at the Routeburn Track Trailhead, where nature's wonders await every adventurer.
Falls Creek Falls
12.5 km
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Falls Creek Falls, a serene escape in Fiordland National Park, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Lake Gunn North Viewpoint
15.4 km
Experience the serene beauty of Lake Gunn North Viewpoint, a scenic haven in Fiordland National Park, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Tutoko Valley River Hike
18.0 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and serene beauty of the Tutoko Valley River Hike in Fiordland National Park, a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Cascade Creek Historic Camp site
19.7 km
Discover the rich history and breathtaking beauty of Cascade Creek Historic Camp Site in Fiordland National Park, a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and history lovers alike.
Fiordland Discovery
21.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Milford Sound with Fiordland Discovery, where adventure meets nature in New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Kiosk Creek Campsite (DOC)
29.8 km
Experience the serene beauty of Kiosk Creek Campsite in Fiordland National Park, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
SPIRIT OF MILFORD
30.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Milford Sound with Spirit of Milford, where nature meets adventure in New Zealand's stunning fjord.
Worsley Hut
35.9 km
Experience the tranquility of Worsley Hut in Fiordland National Park, a rustic mountain cabin surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Eglinton Flats
39.3 km
Discover the serene landscapes and breathtaking views of Eglinton Flats, a must-visit destination in Southland, New Zealand, for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Mount Nicholas
43.9 km
Discover the serene beauty and breathtaking vistas of Mount Nicholas, a hidden gem in New Zealand's stunning Otago region.
Walker Creek DOC Campsite
44.3 km
Discover the tranquility of Walker Creek DOC Campsite in Fiordland National Park, a must-visit for nature lovers and camping enthusiasts in New Zealand.
Ben Lomond Saddle
46.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Ben Lomond Saddle, a premier hiking destination in Queenstown, New Zealand, offering stunning views and unforgettable adventures.
Unmissable attractions to see
Hollyford Track (Trail Head)
5.9 km
Explore the breathtaking Hollyford Track in Fiordland National Park, where stunning landscapes and hidden waterfalls await every adventurer.
Routeburn Nature Walk
7.8 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Routeburn Nature Walk in Otago, New Zealand, a top destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Key Summit Trail
9.9 km
Explore the breathtaking views and serene landscapes along the Key Summit Trail in Fiordland National Park, a hiker's paradise in New Zealand.
Korako Glacier
10.0 km
Explore the mesmerizing beauty of Korako Glacier, a stunning natural attraction in Southland, New Zealand, known for its breathtaking ice formations and serene landscapes.
Lake Marian
10.1 km
Experience the unspoiled beauty of Lake Marian, a tranquil retreat in Fiordland National Park, perfect for hiking and nature photography.
Marian Falls
10.2 km
Explore Marian Falls, a breathtaking waterfall in Fiordland, where nature's beauty meets tranquility in the heart of New Zealand's wilderness.
Key Summit
10.2 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Key Summit, a premier hiking destination in New Zealand's Fiordland National Park, offering stunning views and diverse wildlife.
Pop's View Lookout
10.2 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Southland at Pop's View Lookout - a must-visit vista point for every traveler.
Hollyford Valley Lookout
10.4 km
Discover the breathtaking Hollyford Valley Lookout in Southland, New Zealand, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Lake Marian Trail Carpark
10.4 km
Explore the stunning Hollyford River-Whakatipu Ka Tuka, a natural paradise in Southland, New Zealand, perfect for hiking and breathtaking views.
Lake Marian Track
10.4 km
Explore Lake Marian Track: A breathtaking hiking experience in Fiordland National Park, showcasing stunning landscapes and serene waters.
Lake Marian Track Swing Bridge
10.4 km
Discover the stunning Lake Marian Track Swing Bridge in Fiordland National Park, where breathtaking landscapes and serene nature await every traveler.
Routeburn Track
11.5 km
Discover the stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity of the Routeburn Track in Fiordland National Park, a must-visit hiking destination in New Zealand.
Christie Falls
12.4 km
Explore the stunning Christie Falls in Fiordland National Park, a breathtaking waterfall surrounded by natural beauty and adventure.
Isengard Lookout
12.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Isengard Lookout, an iconic filming location with stunning views that capture the essence of New Zealand's natural beauty.
Essential places to dine
Pio Pio Restaurant
19.9 km
Discover authentic New Zealand cuisine amidst breathtaking landscapes at Pio Pio Restaurant in Fiordland National Park.
Stratosfare Restaurant & Bar
49.6 km
Experience fine dining with breathtaking views at Stratosfare Restaurant & Bar in Queenstown – where culinary excellence meets stunning scenery.
Lokal Kitchen & Bar
49.6 km
Experience exquisite New Zealand flavors at Lokal Kitchen & Bar - your go-to spot for delicious pizzas and European cuisine in Queenstown.
Nest Kitchen + Bar
49.6 km
Discover Nest Kitchen + Bar in Queenstown: where stunning views meet exceptional local cuisine for an unforgettable dining experience.
Mackenzies Restaurant & Bar
50.0 km
Discover exquisite New Zealand cuisine with stunning views at Mackenzies Restaurant & Bar in Queenstown's scenic Fernhill.
Pedro's House of Lamb
50.1 km
Discover the mouthwatering taste of New Zealand at Pedro's House of Lamb – your go-to spot for delicious takeaway lamb dishes in Queenstown.
Bespoke Kitchen
50.3 km
Discover Bespoke Kitchen in Queenstown: A delightful restaurant offering fresh vegan and vegetarian dishes in a cozy setting.
Lombardi Restaurant
50.4 km
Experience exquisite New Zealand cuisine at Lombardi Restaurant in Queenstown - where local flavors meet stunning views.
Lone Star Queenstown
50.4 km
Experience vibrant dining at Lone Star Queenstown - where local flavors meet breathtaking views in New Zealand's adventure capital.
Jervois Steak House
50.5 km
Experience unparalleled dining at Jervois Steak House in Queenstown - where every steak tells a story of quality and flavor.
Left Bank Bistro
50.5 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Left Bank Bistro in Queenstown, where local flavors meet classic culinary traditions.
Bella Cucina
50.5 km
Savor authentic Italian cuisine at Bella Cucina in Queenstown—where every dish tells a story of tradition and taste.
Threesixty Restaurant & Bar
50.5 km
Experience exquisite dining with breathtaking views at Threesixty Restaurant & Bar in Queenstown - where every meal is a feast for the senses.
The Taj Indian Kitchen
50.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of India at The Taj Indian Kitchen in Queenstown - where tradition meets modern dining.
Saigon Kingdom Vietnamese Restaurant
50.5 km
Experience authentic Vietnamese flavors at Saigon Kingdom in Queenstown - where every dish tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Milford Sound Lodge - Premium Chalets
19.9 km
Discover the unmatched beauty of Milford Sound at Milford Sound Lodge - Premium Chalets, where luxury meets nature in New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Discover Milford Sound Cruises Information Centre & Café
20.9 km
Discover Milford Sound’s beauty at the Information Centre & Café – your gateway to adventure in New Zealand’s stunning fjords.
Ultimate Hikes - Mitre Peak Lodge
21.0 km
Discover the serene beauty of Milford Sound at Ultimate Hikes - Mitre Peak Lodge, your gateway to unforgettable adventures in Fiordland.
Descend Scuba Diving - Milford Sound
21.1 km
Explore the underwater wonders of Milford Sound with Descend Scuba Diving, where adventure meets breathtaking natural beauty.
Mrs Woolly's General Store
21.3 km
Experience the charm of Mrs Woolly's General Store, the perfect blend of gifts, crafts, and café delights in the heart of Glenorchy, New Zealand.
Harrison Cove
24.1 km
Explore the breathtaking scenery and tranquil waters of Harrison Cove in Southland, New Zealand, a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Milford Sound
24.3 km
Experience the unparalleled beauty of Milford Sound, a stunning fjord in New Zealand's Fiordland National Park, where nature's wonders await.
Frank's Corner Queenstown
50.4 km
Explore the charm of Frank's Corner in Queenstown, a delightful gift shop offering unique local crafts and souvenirs that embody Kiwi culture.
MorArt
50.5 km
Explore MorArt in Queenstown for unique gifts and local art that embody the spirit of New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Aotea Gifts Queenstown
50.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local treasures at Aotea Gifts Queenstown, your premier gift shop for New Zealand-made products.
Recycle Boutique
50.5 km
Discover unique pre-loved fashion at Recycle Boutique in Queenstown, where sustainability meets style in a charming shopping experience.
Alpha Gifts 三和
50.5 km
Discover unique New Zealand treasures at Alpha Gifts, your go-to souvenir store in the heart of Queenstown.
Good Times Queenstown
50.5 km
Explore unique vintage finds at Good Times Queenstown, your go-to destination for stylish clothing and accessories in the heart of Queenstown.
Angel Divine Queenstown
50.5 km
Explore Angel Divine Queenstown for exclusive fashion finds that blend style with the stunning beauty of New Zealand's adventure capital.
PURE NZ GIFTS
50.5 km
Explore PURE NZ GIFTS in Queenstown for unique, locally crafted souvenirs that capture the essence of New Zealand's culture and artistry.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Milford Sound Lodge - Campervan Park
19.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Milford Sound at the Milford Sound Lodge - Campervan Park, the perfect spot for nature lovers and adventurers.
Milford Sound Public Carpark
20.9 km
Discover Milford Sound's breathtaking beauty from the convenient Public Carpark, your gateway to adventure in New Zealand's Fiordland.
Reds Bar
50.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Reds Bar in Queenstown, the perfect spot to unwind after your adventures.
Le Salon Rouge
50.5 km
Discover the elegance of Le Salon Rouge, Queenstown's premier cocktail bar, blending gourmet cuisine with exquisite drink offerings in a stylish setting.
Atlas Beer Cafe
50.5 km
Discover the best local brews and delightful bites at Atlas Beer Cafe, the heart of Queenstown's vibrant pub scene.
Ferg's Bar
50.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Ferg's Bar in Queenstown, where delightful meals and unique cocktails await in a lively setting.
Pub on Wharf
50.5 km
Discover the lively Pub on Wharf in Queenstown, where delicious food, local brews, and live music create an unforgettable atmosphere.
Minus 5° ICE BAR
50.5 km
Discover a frosty wonderland at Minus 5° ICE BAR in Queenstown, where ice sculptures and chilled cocktails create an unforgettable experience.
Little Blackwood
50.6 km
Discover Little Blackwood, Queenstown's premier cocktail bar with expertly crafted drinks and a lively atmosphere, perfect for any occasion.
Perky's - Floating Bar Queenstown
50.6 km
Discover the charm of Perky's Floating Bar in Queenstown, where stunning lake views and refreshing drinks create the perfect getaway.
Surreal Bar & Restaurant
50.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife and delicious culinary offerings at Surreal Bar & Restaurant in Queenstown, New Zealand, where every visit is an unforgettable experience.
Little Mez
50.6 km
Discover Little Mez in Queenstown: A vibrant bar with eclectic drinks and a unique atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after your adventures in New Zealand.
Rodd & Gunn The Lodge, Queenstown
50.6 km
Experience the perfect blend of style and comfort at Rodd & Gunn The Lodge in Queenstown, offering exquisite dining and a vibrant bar scene.
Upstairs @ The Bunker
50.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Queenstown at Upstairs @ The Bunker, where cocktails, ambiance, and style converge for an unforgettable experience.
The Sundeck Rooftop Bar
50.7 km
Experience breathtaking views and exquisite cocktails at The Sundeck Rooftop Bar, the ultimate sky-high retreat in Queenstown.
