Mount Cook National Park

This trek begins in the gateway town of Mount Cook Village, which is a must-visit destination in its own right, and serves as the jumping off point for most Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park ventures. Drive to the White Horse Hill Campground (follow the signs for the Hooker Valley) and park in the day use area. The trail begins at the back of the parking lot (the end opposite to the road entry) w...

Once in Mount Cook Village follow the signs to the White Horse Hill Campground where you'll find the start of the Hooker Valley Track. Alternatively, you can camp in the campground and begin the hike before sunrise for the best experience. The sign says that the one-way hiking time is 1 hour and 35 minutes, however, Hooker Lake can easily be reached in 1 hour or less. The path is extremely well...

From the car park follow the trail as it begins fairly flat on a gravel trail. After five minutes or so you will see a sign that points you, left, towards the Sealy Tarns track. After following this trail for around 10 more minutes, as it goes slowly uphill, you will come to the base of the steps. From here it is essentially a staircase of 1,810 steps winding up the side of the mountain. As you...

Start on the track from the White Horse Hill campground. Follow the track up almost 2,000 steps until you reach Sealy Tarns. From here the track continues steeply up the mountain until you reach the ridge. Continue over the ridge until reaching the hut. From here continue up the ridge to the summit of Mt. Ollivier.WARNING: In the winter/spring season this track has deep snow and alpine equipmen...

Wake before the sun rises and make the short half hour hike from the White Horse Hill Campground to Kea Point. This easy to follow trail leads to a beautiful overlook with views of Mt. Cook and the surrounding Southern Alps. You won't be disappointed as you watch the sun rise behind Mt. Cook and light up the glacial peaks like birthday candles. A photographers paradise when the weather's in you...

One of the most spectacular hikes in New Zealand next to New Zealand's highest mountain - Mount Cook (aka Aoraki).5.2km one way, it is a tough ascent. The first part of the track ascends to Sealy tarns. This involves climbing zig zag stairs where you will be rewarded with a spectacular view over Hooker valley and can even enjoy lunch at a large picnic table. Many walkers choose to stop the hik...