Discover the Serenity of Blue Lakes
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Blue Lakes, a serene oasis in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, perfect for hiking and nature lovers.
Nestled within the breathtaking Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, Blue Lakes offers a tranquil retreat for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Experience stunning landscapes and crystal-clear waters that promise unforgettable memories.
A brief summary to Blue Lakes
- 8538+HF Aoraki/Mount Cook, Gammack, National Park, NZ
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Bring plenty of water and snacks as facilities are limited.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes to navigate uneven terrain.
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
- Check weather conditions before your hike to ensure a safe experience.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving to Blue Lakes from Aoraki/Mount Cook Village, start from the village and head south on State Highway 80. After approximately 2 kilometers, turn left onto the road leading to the Hooker Valley Track. Continue on this road for about 5 kilometers until you reach the parking area. From the parking lot, follow the Hooker Valley Track, which will lead you past stunning scenery and eventually to the Blue Lakes. The walk is about 3 hours return, so ensure you have appropriate footwear and supplies.
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Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, take a bus from Christchurch or Queenstown to Aoraki/Mount Cook Village. Once in the village, you can either rent a bike or join a guided tour that includes a visit to Blue Lakes. The guided tours typically include transportation to the trailhead and often provide information about the area. Make sure to check the local bus schedules, as they vary by season.
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Walking
For those already in the vicinity of the Hooker Valley Track, simply access the trail from the parking area. The Blue Lakes are approximately 1.5 kilometers along the Hooker Valley Track, which is well-marked. The walk offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers, making it a scenic and enjoyable trek for visitors of all ages.
Discover more about Blue Lakes
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tasman Glacier Car Park
0.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Tasman Glacier Car Park in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers.
Hooker Lake
4.9 km
Explore the stunning Hooker Lake, a glacial gem in Canterbury, surrounded by majestic peaks and vibrant landscapes, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
The Second Swing Bridge
5.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Second Swing Bridge in Mount Cook National Park, where stunning landscapes and adventure await at every turn.
Mueller Lake
6.3 km
Explore Mueller Lake: A hidden gem in Canterbury, New Zealand, where breathtaking views and serene landscapes await every traveler.
White Horse Hill Campground
6.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of White Horse Hill Campground in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a serene escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Mt Cook Chalets
6.9 km
Discover breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures at Mt Cook Chalets, your cozy retreat in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand.
Aoraki Court
7.0 km
Discover the stunning landscapes of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park while enjoying comfort at Aoraki Court, the perfect base for your adventures.
Haka House Aoraki Mt Cook
7.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Aoraki/Mount Cook from Haka House, a welcoming hostel with stunning views and self-catering facilities.
Mt Cook Lodge & Motels
7.0 km
Experience the serenity of Mt Cook Lodge & Motels, your gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Aoraki Alpine Lodge
7.1 km
Experience unmatched alpine beauty and adventure at Aoraki Alpine Lodge, your perfect base in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Aoraki Mount Cook Village
7.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Aoraki Mount Cook Village, a gateway to New Zealand's stunning Southern Alps and outdoor adventures with unforgettable landscapes.
Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe & Bar
7.1 km
Discover the Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe & Bar, where culinary excellence meets breathtaking views in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
The Hermitage Hotel
7.1 km
Discover unparalleled luxury and breathtaking views at The Hermitage Hotel in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand's stunning natural gem.
Copland Shelter
7.2 km
Experience the tranquility of Copland Shelter, a mountain cabin in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, surrounded by stunning alpine landscapes.
Mt Cook Village Public shelter
7.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Aoraki/Mount Cook at the Public Shelter, your essential stop for adventure in New Zealand's stunning national park.
Unmissable attractions to see
Tasman Glacier Viewpoint
0.2 km
Explore the breathtaking Tasman Glacier Viewpoint in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, where stunning scenery meets unforgettable outdoor adventures.
Blue Lake
0.4 km
Explore the serene beauty of Blue Lake in Canterbury, New Zealand - a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Tasman Glacier View near the lake
0.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Tasman Glacier View in Canterbury, New Zealand - a must-visit hiking area for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Hooker Valley Track
5.1 km
Experience the stunning landscapes of the Hooker Valley Track, a premier hiking destination in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand.
Lake Müller Lookout
5.6 km
Experience the stunning landscapes of Lake Müller Lookout in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a photographer's paradise in New Zealand.
Hooker Hut
5.9 km
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquility of Hooker Hut, a stunning alpine escape in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
Ball Pass
6.0 km
Explore Ball Pass in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park for stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and an unforgettable connection with nature.
Alpine Memorial
6.1 km
Experience the serene beauty of the Alpine Memorial, a tribute to adventure nestled in the stunning landscapes of Hooker Valley, New Zealand.
Kea Point
6.8 km
Discover the breathtaking views at Kea Point in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers in New Zealand.
The Old Mountaineers Cafe
7.0 km
Experience the perfect blend of delicious cuisine and stunning views at The Old Mountaineers Cafe in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Southern Alps Guiding
7.0 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Southern Alps with expert-guided adventures in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park Visitor Centre
7.0 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and adventures awaiting you at Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park Visitor Centre.
Hooker Trail Head
7.1 km
Explore the majestic Hooker Trail Head in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, where stunning alpine landscapes and glacial lakes await every adventurer.
Glacier Explorers
7.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of glaciers at Glacier Explorers in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand's alpine paradise.
Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre
7.1 km
Discover the legacy of Sir Edmund Hillary and explore the majestic landscapes of New Zealand at the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre.
Essential places to dine
Chamois Bar & Grill
7.0 km
Experience exquisite dining at Chamois Bar & Grill amidst breathtaking landscapes in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Alpine Restaurant
7.1 km
Experience exceptional buffet dining with breathtaking mountain views at the Alpine Restaurant in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
Tasman Delta Cafe
24.3 km
Experience exquisite dining at Tasman Delta Cafe surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
The Last Kitchen
28.2 km
Experience exceptional dining at The Last Kitchen - where local flavors meet stunning views in Fox Glacier.
Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar
28.3 km
Experience exceptional New Zealand cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar in Fox Glacier.
The White Pub Cafe & Bar
28.4 km
Experience delightful local flavors at The White Pub Cafe & Bar in Fox Glacier—your perfect dining retreat amidst breathtaking scenery.
Breakfast Restaurant
28.4 km
Experience a delightful breakfast at this cozy restaurant in Fox Glacier, offering delicious dishes and warm hospitality amidst stunning scenery.
Betsey Jane Eatery & Bar
28.6 km
Experience exceptional local cuisine at Betsey Jane Eatery & Bar in Fox Glacier—where every meal is a celebration of New Zealand's finest flavors.
High Peaks Hotel
29.5 km
Experience comfort and adventure at High Peaks Hotel in Fox Glacier – your gateway to breathtaking natural beauty and memorable dining.
Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar
34.1 km
Experience exquisite dining at Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar in Franz Josef—where local flavors meet international culinary excellence.
SnakeBite Brewery
34.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors at SnakeBite Brewery in Franz Josef - where Asian cuisine meets local brews in a charming setting.
The Landing Restaurant & Bar
34.3 km
Experience the best of New Zealand's cuisine at The Landing Restaurant & Bar in Franz Josef – where fresh flavors meet breathtaking views.
Alice May Restaurant, Franz Josef
34.4 km
Discover exquisite local cuisine and breathtaking glacier views at Alice May Restaurant in Franz Josef.
Monsoon Restaurant
34.5 km
Discover the flavors of New Zealand at Monsoon Restaurant in Franz Josef – where local ingredients meet exquisite culinary artistry.
Rainforest Retreat
34.5 km
Experience unparalleled hospitality at Rainforest Retreat – where nature meets comfort in Franz Josef's stunning landscapes.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
NZ Post Centre Mt Cook
7.0 km
Experience mailing services in the heart of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and adventure.
On the Spot Fox Glacier Motors
28.3 km
Convenience store and petrol station in the heart of Fox Glacier, offering essential supplies and fuel for your West Coast adventure.
NPD Fox Glacier Motors
28.3 km
Discover the convenience of NPD Fox Glacier Motors, your essential stop for fuel and supplies in the captivating Fox Glacier region.
Cafe Nevé
28.3 km
Discover Café Nevé in Fox Glacier for a cozy atmosphere, delicious food, and stunning views, perfect for a relaxing break in nature.
On the Spot Fox Glacier
28.3 km
Experience the convenience of On the Spot Fox Glacier, your go-to store for snacks, drinks, and local treasures in the heart of New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Fox Glacier Guiding Gift Shop
28.3 km
Discover the essence of New Zealand at the Fox Glacier Guiding Gift Shop, your destination for unique souvenirs and local treasures.
Experience Fox Glacier
28.4 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Fox Glacier, New Zealand, with convenient bicycle rentals for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon
28.4 km
Discover the culinary treasures of Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon, a must-visit restaurant in Fox Glacier, New Zealand, offering delicious local cuisine.
NZ Post Centre Fox Glacier
28.7 km
Explore the essentials at NZ Post Centre Fox Glacier, your trusted spot for mailing services amid New Zealand's stunning landscape.
Fox Glacier Community Centre
28.7 km
Discover the Fox Glacier Community Centre – your gateway to exploring the stunning landscapes and adventures of New Zealand's Fox Glacier region.
EuniQ Patchwork
28.8 km
Discover the art of quilting at EuniQ Patchwork, the premier quilt shop in Fox Glacier, New Zealand, offering a rich selection of fabrics and crafting supplies.
Misty Peaks Boutique Accommodation
29.1 km
Experience unparalleled comfort and breathtaking views at Misty Peaks Boutique Accommodation in the heart of Fox Glacier, New Zealand.
Franz Josef Glacier Car Park
30.4 km
Experience the beauty of Franz Josef Glacier Car Park, your gateway to New Zealand's stunning glacier landscapes and outdoor adventures.
ReflectioNZ Gifts & Gallery
31.8 km
Explore ReflectioNZ Gifts & Gallery for authentic New Zealand art and souvenirs that capture the beauty of the Fox Glacier region.
Matheson Cafe
31.8 km
Discover the perfect blend of local cuisine and breathtaking views at Matheson Cafe, next to stunning Lake Matheson.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Snowline Bar
7.2 km
Unwind at Snowline Bar in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park; a serene spot for drinks and breathtaking views amidst stunning alpine landscapes.
NZ Alpine Club Unwin Lodge - Private club
8.0 km
Experience the serene beauty of Aoraki / Mount Cook at the NZ Alpine Club Unwin Lodge, an alpine retreat for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Fox Glacier Jade Hotel
28.2 km
Discover the beauty of New Zealand at Fox Glacier Jade Hotel, your cozy retreat amidst stunning landscapes and thrilling outdoor adventures.
Bella Vista Fox Glacier
28.2 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at Bella Vista Fox Glacier, your gateway to stunning natural wonders.
The Westhaven Motel
28.4 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at The Westhaven Motel, your gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of Fox Glacier.
Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier
28.4 km
Discover the beauty of Glacier Country at Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier, your gateway to adventure and relaxation amid stunning landscapes.
Rainforest Motel
28.5 km
Experience the beauty of Fox Glacier at Rainforest Motel, your cozy base for adventure in New Zealand's stunning nature.
Sunset Motel
29.0 km
Discover scenic beauty and comfort at Sunset Motel in Fox Glacier, your perfect base for exploring New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes.
Moa Bar
34.5 km
Discover the warmth and hospitality of Moa Bar, a unique bar experience in the heart of Franz Josef, offering local flavors and stunning views.
The Hard Antler
92.4 km
Discover the charm of The Hard Antler, a beloved bar in Haast, New Zealand, offering local flavors and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Cave Arms Tavern
92.9 km
Discover the warm ambiance and delicious cuisine at Cave Arms Tavern, a must-visit pub in the heart of Cave, New Zealand.
Wonderland Makarora Lodge
95.6 km
Discover cozy lodging, delightful dining, and outdoor adventure at Wonderland Makarora Lodge in New Zealand's stunning Southern Alps.