31 Amazing Hikes in South Island New Zealand

From the rugged peaks of the Southern Alps to the serene shores of pristine lakes, the South Island of New Zealand offers some of the world’s most epic hiking trails.

Kiwis love adventure and the outdoors. Couple this with breathtaking scenery and a solid conservation department– and it’s no wonder why there are hundreds, if not thousands well-marked and established trails to explore.

I’ve traveled to New Zealand many times in search of the best hikes in the South Island and published dozens of guides and reviews. Here’s my curated list of the top short walks, overnight treks, and multi-day tramps in the South Island, broken down into smaller areas to help you plan.

2. Tiki Trail

• Trailhead: Next to the Skyline Gondola in Queenstown
• Hike Distance & Duration: 2.1 km (1.3 mi), 1-2 hours round trip
• Difficulty: Moderate

Starting from the Skyline Gondola just a few minutes' walk from Ferg Burger is Queenstown's Tiki Trail.

This steep, yet scenic climb through dense beech and fir forest winds up to the top of Skyline Hill, just next to Bob's Lookout. This trail is used to get to the top of the Gondola without actually going on it– but I believe the walk is worth it for the views on the way up to!

Just know the trail is quite steep, making it more suited for those with a decent fitness level At the top, you’ll also find the “luge” which is one of the best things to do in Queenstown.

3. Ben Lomond Track

• Trailhead: Next to the Skyline Gondola or hike the Tiki Trail (below)
• Hike Distance & Duration: 18 km (11.1 mi), 5-7 hours round trip
• Difficulty: Challenging

If you've warmed up your legs after hiking up the Tiki Trail, you can continue up for an epic mountain summit called Ben Lomond (1,748 m). The Ben Lomond track is one of my favourite hiking trails in the South Island and is also very accessible, although it feels like you're in the middle of the Southern Alps!

This hike is more challenging, with a steep ascent and rugged terrain, and can get slippery and icy in wintertime.

However, if you make it, you'll be rewarded with the absolute best views of Queenstown, the Remarkables, and the beautiful Lake Wakatipu below.

4. Bob's Cove Track

• Trailhead: Bob's Cove Carpark about 15 mins from town
• Hike Distance & Duration: 1.5 km (0.9 mi), 20-30 minutes round trip
• Difficulty: Easy

From mountain summits to lakeside views, they say that Queenstown captures what New Zealand's diverse landscapes are all about. Bob's Cove is a popular lakeside swimming and picnic area located just a short drive from Queenstown's main strip.

If you love hiking you can walk the Bob's Cove Track, a scenic loop, with the highlight being "Picnic Hill" where you'll be treated to sweeping views of Lake Wakatipu and the distant Remarkables range.

This trail is ideal for families and those looking for a relaxing walk with beautiful lake views. And, the water is very clear and blue so it's perfect for a swim after!

5. Moke Lake Loop

• Trailhead: Moke Lake Campsite
• Hike Distance & Duration: 6.5 km (4 mi), 2-3 hours round trip
• Difficulty: Easy

Moke Lake New Zealand is a small mountain lake located near the small suburb of Closeburn, near Queenstown. Although this lake is only a relative stone-throw away from the bustling adrenaline hub, Moke Lake is a much tamer and more secluded hiking area.

Moke Lake Loop is a short, easy hike around the lake, offering stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains on calm days. You can also walk to viewpoint hill for excellent views from a high vantage point.

6. Lake Alta Hike

• Trailhead: Remarkables Ski Area
• Hike Distance & Duration: 2 km (1.2 mi), 1-2 hours round trip
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

The Lake Alta hike is a short track that leads from the Remarkables Ski Area and finishes at a pristine mountain lake at around 2,000 meters above sea level. This is kind of a cheap alpine hike since you can drive most of the way via the Remarkables Ski Area access road, which is an adventure in itself!

From the ski area, the hike to Lake Alta is relatively short but includes a steady climb. There's also an epic saddle viewpoint that I discovered for epic views of Shotover Country below!

7. The Routeburn Track

• Trailhead: Routeburn Shelter at Glenorchy)
• Hike Distance & Duration: 33 km one-way hike (20.5 mi), 2-4 days
• Difficulty: Moderate to Hard

The Routeburn Track is the first of the "Great Walks" featured on this list and is widely considered one of the best overnight tramps on the South Island. The track passes through vast tussock plains, deep valleys, temperate rainforests, and high alpine peaks, which means you'll see the best of the South Island in a single through hike!

You can start this one from either Glenorchy or the Divide in the Fiordland National Park. But in my opinion, the Glenorchy starting point offers a better elevation profile. Alternatively, read my guide if you want to hike the Routeburn as a return day trip from Queenstown with a climb of Conical Peak.

8. Earnslaw Burn Hike

• Trailhead: Glenorchy near Lovers' Leap Road
• Hike Distance & Duration: 22 km (13.7 mi), usually 2 days
• Difficulty: Hard

Also departing from Glenorchy, not far from Queenstown, the Earnslaw Burn hike is another amazing overnight hike (or long out-and-back day trip).

Following the Earnslaw glacial burn, the track dips and climbs along pristine beech forest for several hours before finally breaking out into a magical glacial valley.

The track leads all the way to the Earnslaw glacier, passing plunging waterfalls on each side. There are several spots that make great freedom camping spots. For this reason, I recommend completing the Earnslaw Burn hike as an overnight trip. We camped near the glacier and the views were amazing!

South Island Hikes Near Wanaka

Second to Queenstown, Wanaka is arguably the next most popular destination for adventure travelers visiting New Zealand. Nestled beside Lake Wanaka and with direct access to the vast Mount Aspiring National Park, it offers some of the most iconic hikes like Roy's Peak and the Rocky Mountain Summit track.

9. Roy's Peak

• Trailhead: Roy's Peak Track car park, Mount Aspiring Road, Wanaka
• Hike Distance & Duration: 16 km (10 mi), 4-6 hours round trip
• Difficulty: Moderate-Challenging

Known as New Zealand's most trafficked mountain, to say that the Roy's Peak track is popular would be an understatement.

However, that's not to say that its popularity is unwarranted. On a clear day, Roy's Peak rewards hikers with sweeping views of Wanaka town and lake, as well as distant Mount Aspiring. And of course, opportunities to take that iconic Roy's Peak hiking photo you've seen on social media.

The trail is well-maintained and features several switchbacks leading up the mountain. You can hike all the way to the summit after around 1,230 m (4,127 ft) of elevation gain. However, the views are just as good from the famous "photo spot".

10. Rocky Mountain Summit and Diamond Lake Loop

• Trailhead: Diamond Lake Conservation Area, Wanaka
• Hike Distance & Duration: 7 km (4.3 mi), 2-3 hours round trip
• Difficulty: Moderate

If the Roy's Peak car park has reached max capacity and you're not too keen on queuing up for a summit photo, then the Rocky Mountain summit track is a great alternative.

Just a 10-15 minute drive from Wanaka, the Rocky Mountain summit track climbs to a very scenic viewpoint high above Wanaka Lake. Often missed by visitors to Wanaka, the view from the summit has earned it a spot on my list of best hikes in South Island New Zealand.

11. Blue Pools Trail in Wanaka

• Trailhead: Haast Pass-Makarora Road, Mount Aspiring National Park
• Hike Distance & Duration: 3 km (1.8 mi), 1-hour round trip (allow more time to swim)
• Difficulty: Easy

The Blue Pools track is located in Mount Aspiring National Park, approximately one hour's drive from Wanaka into Mount Aspiring National Park.

This easy and shot walking track leads through beautiful native forests and over two swing bridges before finishing at the Makarora River's Blue Pools. Many visitors flock to the Blue Pools to swim in the incredibly blue glacial waters at the end of this short, yet scenic track.

However, the hike itself is also very scenic, leading through beautiful forests with plenty of birdlife around.

Hikes Near Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

The crown jewel of New Zealand hiking areas– the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park has some of the absolute best alpine hikes in New Zealand's South Island.

From unbeatable views of Mount Cook– New Zealand's tallest mountain to moraine viewpoints looking over the country's largest glacier, this is a New Zealand hiking destination you won't want to miss.

12. Tasman Glacier Viewpoint Hike

• Trailhead: Blue Lakes Carpark, Mount Cook National Park
• Distance and Duration: 8.5 km in 2 hours
• Difficulty: Easy but slightly sketchy scree climb

Starting off the hikes in the Mount Cook area is this unmarked and little-known viewpoint on the edge of the Tasman Glacier moraine.

To get here, you'll need to drive to the Tasman Valley, just a short drive from Mount Cook Village. The viewpoint is found about one hour's hike along the Balls Hut Track. . While this hike isn't the most scenic or challenging, the viewpoint at the end offers a stunning perspective of the Tasman Glacier and its surrounding peaks at the very end.

The scree climb can be tricky, so take your time and watch your footing.

13. Sealy Tarns Track

• Trailhead: White Horse Hill Campsite, Mount Cook National Park
• Hike Distance & Duration: 7.5 km return in 2-3 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate but steep

The next four hikes on this list all depart from near the White Horse Hill campsite, just a short drive from Mount Cook Village.

First up is the Sealy Tarns track, a steep climb that traverses over 2,200 wooden steps before concluding at a set of beautiful reflective alpine ponds (tarns). The climb is tough, but the reward is worth it.

From the tarns you'll get epic views of the Hooker Valley and Aoraki/Mount Cook. If you're a keen photographer, make sure to snap some reflective photos of Aoraki in the tarns!

14. Mueller Hut Route

• Trailhead: White Horse Hill Campsite, Mount Cook National Park
• Hike Distance & Duration: 10.4 km return in 5.5 - 8 hours (usually overnight)
• Difficulty: Challenging

Out of all the epic trails in the South Island, the Mueller Hut Route is my absolute favorite. The trail heads to a picturesque hut sitting high on the ridge above the Hooker Valley for arguably the best possible views of Aoraki/Mount Cook– New Zealand's tallest mountain.

The trail continues on from the Sealy Tarns track, and ascends further up the Sealy range to the pass, with an option to climb Mount Ollivier (I recommend it for sunset).

The Mueller Hut is one of New Zealand's many scenic alpine huts. While you can stay in the hut, Many people choose freedom camp near the hut too. Read my guide linked above to find out where.

15. Hooker Valley Track

• Trailhead: White Horse Hill Campsite, Mount Cook National Park
• Hike Distance & Duration: 10 km (6.2 mi), 3 hours round trip
• Difficulty: Easy

The Hooker Valley track is often considered one of the most scenic hikes in New Zealand and is the most popular trail in Mount Cook National Park.

Winding up the Hooker Valley, this hike passes several swing bridges, passing moraine viewpoints and crosses the Hooker River as it makes its way to the Hooker Glacial lake at the feet of Mount Cook.

If you're looking for great views of New Zealand's tallest peak without having to commit to a strenuous hike, this is the one for you! This track is suitable for all fitness levels. The glacial lake at the end, with floating icebergs and the towering presence of Mount Cook, is absolutely incredible.

16. Kea Point Track

• Trailhead: White Horse Hill Campsite, Mount Cook National Park
• Hike Distance & Duration: 3 km (1.9 mi), 1-2 hours round trip
• Difficulty: Easy

The Kea Point track is the shortest track in the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. With approximately 1-2 hours expected for the return trip, it's a worthwhile hike that finishes at Kea Point.

From this small viewpoint, there are direct views of the Mueller glacial moraine and lake, with floating icebergs regularly seen in the calm alpine waters. This hike is perfect for families and those looking for a short, easy walk near the car park and camping area with rewarding views.

17. Blue Lakes and Tasman Glacier Walk

• Trailhead: Blue Lakes Carpark, Mount Cook National Park
• Hike Distance & Duration: 2.6 km (1.6 mi), 1 hour round trip
• Difficulty: Easy

On the way back from Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, why not go back to the Tasman Valley to check out the Blue Lakes and Tasman Glacier walk?

Of course, this can be completed at the same time as the moraine viewpoint mentioned above. However, if you're short on time or would prefer a short hike to the Tasman Glacier, then this is a great option. The Blue Lakes are glacial lakes that can change color depending on the season.

Hikes & Tramps near Te Anau & Fiordland National Park

For those chasing a real slice of wild New Zealand, the Fiordlands is the place to be.

When most people think of the Fiordlands, they think of Milford Sound. The reality is that there is so much more to explore than just the regular tourist beat. Here are some of the most epic hikes in the area to get you started.

18. Kepler Track

• Trailhead: Kepler Track Carpark, Te Anau
• Hike Distance & Duration: 60 km (37.3 mi), 3-4 days
• Difficulty: Challenging

Another of New Zealand's "Great Walks", the Kepler Track is a 2-4 day tramp departing from Te Anau. The great thing about the Kepler Track is that it's a loop track, which means you don't have to follow in your footsteps to return back to Te Anau.

In terms of scenery, the Kepler is one of the most amazing hikes on New Zealand's South Island. Following the largest body of fresh water in Australiasia (Lake Te Anau), the track climbs through dense native forests before entering vast tussock plains with views of snow-capped peaks in all directions.

There are several ways to tackle this track, but in my opinion, the best way is to do it anti-clockwise in three days. Read my guide linked above for an itinerary.

19. Mount Luxmore Summit

• Trailhead: Kepler Track Carpark, Te Anau
• Hike Distance & Duration: 37 km return, 8-10 hours
• Difficulty: Challenging

For those who don't have time to tackle the whole thing, it's possible to lock in a long day hike up the first section of the Kepler and to summit Mount Luxmore before returning back to Te Anau. This is a very long out and back day hike but well worth it if you are fit and short on time.

This is a great way to see a glimpse of the Kepler without committing to a long multi-day trek. However, it's important to remember that the best views by far are experienced on day two of the Kepler track.

Another popular alternative for those low on time is to complete this day hike and stay or camp near the Luxmore Hut and walk back to Te Anau the following day.

20. Milford Track

• Trailhead: Glade Wharf, Te Anau Downs
• Hike Distance & Duration: 53.5 km (33.2 mi), 4 days
• Difficulty: Challenging

Perhaps the most well-known and trafficked of New Zealand's Great Walks, the Milford Track is a 4-day 53.5 km track that finishes in the magical Milford Sound.

Known as the 'finest walk in the world' the Milford Track passes several waterfalls with spectacular viewing opportunities of the fjords and Mitre Peak.

This track is challenging and one of the most popular of the South Islands' Great Walks. Therefore I recommend booking well in advance.

21. Lake Hauroko

• Trailhead: Lake Hauroko Carpark
• Hike Distance & Duration:  6.2 km in-out return, 2-3 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate

While Milford seems to get most of the attention, there are loads more excellent hiking areas in the Fiordland and Southlands that are worth your time.

Lake Hauroko is a popular fishing and boating lake that also has one of the best sunset lookout hikes in the region.

This short, steep hike leads to a rocky platform overlooking the lake and snow-capped mountain ranges on either side. On the way up I discovered some of the most wild forests in New Zealand, with giant ferns as far as the eye could see.

The great thing about this hike is that it's very lightly trafficked, which means you'll most likely have it all to yourself!

Hikes Near Arthur's Pass & the West Coast

Arthur's Pass, at an elevation of 740 m, is a small tourist hub that has become a mecca for snowboarders, outdoor enthusiasts, and of course, hikers and trampers.

The mountain pass by the same name is only 5 kilometres from the township and is considered to be one of the most scenic roads in New Zealand.

22. Avalanche Peak

• Trailhead: Avalanche Creek Shelter, Arthur's Pass Village
• Hike Distance & Duration: 9.2 km (5.7 mi) 4-6 hours return loop
• Difficulty: Challenging

For the adventurous, the Avalanche Peak route is one of the best hikes in the Arthur's Pass area.

This one can be tackled in a loop, with both the beginning and end of the track being connected by a short stretch of highway.

Although a very steep climb that can be hazardous in winter conditions, the Avalanche Peak hike offers incredible views of the surrounding Arthur's Pass region, including tall mountain peaks and huge, plunging waterfalls. This hike is best suited for experienced hikers who are comfortable with steep and potentially icy terrain (especially in Winter).

23. Castle Hill (Kura Tawhiti)

Castle Hill is a little bit of a different hiking opportunity located near Arthur's Pass. What I mean by this is that it's more of an attraction to explore rather than a set track or route. However, there is one called the Hogs Back Track.

Kura Tawhiti is a culturally significant area consisting of hundreds of huge limestone boulders. You could easily spend hours walking around the many tracks around the boulders and admiring this geological phenomenon. The area is great for families and those looking for a leisurely exploration of a unique landscape and learn about the history of the area.

24. Devils Punchbowl Waterfall Track

• Trailhead: Punchbowl Road, Arthur's Pass Village
• Hike Distance & Duration: 2 km (1.2 mi), 1 hour round trip
• Difficulty: Easy

Out of all of New Zealand's waterfalls, the Devils Punchbowl Waterfall has to be one of the most impressive. Plunging down sheer cliffs in a beautiful native forest amphitheater, this 131-metre waterfall is an absolute behemoth!

The hike to the waterfall is quite short but follows an incredibly scenic path through the forest featuring a few bridges. You can also combine this trail with the 6.8 km Arthur's Pass Walking track departing from the Devil's Punchbowl waterfall carpark if you're up for a longer walk.

25. Roberts Point Track (Franz Josef)

• Trailhead: Glacier Valley Carpark, Franz Josef
• Hike Distance & Duration: 12 km (7.5 mi), 5-7 hours round trip
• Difficulty: Challenging

Now, onto the wild West Coast. This region is home to several large glaciers including the Franz Josef glacier and the Fox Glacier. This region is very wild and surprisingly, is home to some of the South Islands' most beautiful native forests.

The best hike for views of the Franz Josef glacier is the Roberts Point track. Although much longer than some of the other, quick-fix viewpoints, this track undeniably offers the best views as the main viewpoint is quite close to the retreating glacier.

Crossing several swing bridges over the Franz Josef glacial valley and climbing steadily through incredible native rainforest, this is a hike that is seriously underrated!

26. Mount Fox Summit Route

• Trailhead: Gillespies Beach Road, Fox Glacier
• Hike Distance & Duration: 7.2 km (4.5 mi), 8 hours round trip
• Difficulty: Challenging

Looking for the best sunrise hike on the South Island's West Coast? What about the steepest tramping route in the country? The answer is the Mount Fox route.

Seriously steep, yet seriously rewarding. This route is approximately 80% root-scrambling and 20% jaw-gaping, awe-inspiring views. At the top of Mount Fox, we found an amazing ridge sitting high above the Fox Glacier, for some absolutely breathtaking scenes.

27. Lake Matheson Loop

• Trailhead: Lake Matheson Carpark, Fox Glacier
• Hike Distance & Duration: 2.5 km (1.5 mi) circuit, 1.5 hours
• Difficulty: Easy

The calm reflective waters of Lake Matheson are one of the best places in New Zealand to get views of Aoraki/Mount Cook's western face.

Located just a short drive from Fox Glacier village, the Lake Matheson Reflection Lake has a short, scenic loop hike around its circumference. The highlight is undeniably Reflection Island, where in the right conditions, you'll be treated with Mount Cook views like in the photo below.

Most of the trail undulates lightly between well-maintained unsealed tracks and wooden boardwalks. There are also plenty of bench seats at the best viewpoint locations if you're up for a picnic.

Hikes Near Kaikoura and the East Coast

Now for the South Island's east coast. The north-eastern Kaikoura region is considered to be the island's wildlife capital, especially when it comes to spotting marine creatures.

Here are the two best hikes near Kaikoura to fill in the time between whale watching and seal greeting!

28. Kaikoura Peninsula Walk

• Trailhead: Kaikoura Peninsula Carpark, Kaikoura
• Hike Distance & Duration: 11.7 km (7.3 mi), 3 hours round trip
• Difficulty: Easy

The Kaikoura Peninsula walk is a short coastal loop located just south of the Kaikoura township. This hike is popular because it allows visitors to spot dozens of basking fur seals who call this part of New Zealand home.

The trail is well-marked following the coast and provides great views, making it a great option for families and those keen on spotting New Zealand's unique marine life from the shore.

29. Mount Fyffe Summit

• Trailhead: Mount Fyffe Carpark, Kaikoura
• Hike Distance & Duration: 18 km (11.2 mi), 8 hours round trip
• Difficulty: Challenging

The Mount Fyffe summit hike is a tramping track that leads high above the Kaikoura Peninsula with views stretching from the alps to the sea.

The initial part of the trail follows a gravel 4WD track through a forested area, providing a steady but manageable ascent. This section was a good warm-up for the more strenuous parts of the hike. About halfway up, you will reach Fyffe Hut, a basic DOC hut where you can take a break. The last half of the hike is significantly steeper and much more challenging, with a series of switchbacks leading to the summit.

In my opinion, the Mount Fyffe Summit Route is the best mountain hike near Kaikoura. The panoramic views from the summit are spectacular, and the coastal views are different to the rest of the hikes in the South Island.

Hiking in the Catlins

The Catlins is a Kiwi hidden gem with several scenic coastal and rainforest hikes. This area on the South Island's East Coast is often overlooked by tourists but offers a unique blend of rugged coastlines, lush rainforests, and serene waterfalls.

30. Catlins Short Waterfall Hikes

If you're driving around the South Island on a road trip, then I'd highly recommend dedicating at least a few days to visiting this region.

What makes this drive so great is that there are dozens of very short hikes leading to some of the best temperate rainforest waterfalls in New Zealand. Since the hikes to the Catlins waterfalls are all very short, I've included a list of them below rather than dedicating a section to each.

• McLean Falls
• Purakaunui Falls
• Matai Falls

31. Waipohatu Waterfall Loop

• Trailhead: Waipohatu Picnic Area, Catlins
• Hike Distance & Duration: 7.8 km return loop; 2-3 hours
• Difficulty: Easy

The Waipohatu Waterfall loop offers not one, but two awesome waterfalls to reward you for your efforts. This hike can also be completed in a loop that leads through the beautiful rainforest that is filled with the sounds of native birds and wildlife.

The track is well-maintained and suitable for all fitness levels, making it a great family-friendly option in the Catlins. However, the ground is often very boggy and wet, especially after heavy rains.

Bonus: Te Araroa Trail: The Most Epic Hike in New Zealand's South Island

For the really adventurous and dedicated hikers and trampers is the world-renowned Te Araroa trail.

This is a 3,000 km+ route that is definitely not for the faint-hearted. Starting at Cape Reinga on the tip of the North Island and finishing in Bluff, New Zealand's southernmost point, the Te Araroa connects the entire country by a single track.

Of course, this incredible feat is a once-in-a-lifetime mission that requires an extensive dedication of time and energy. So, if you've been looking for the most challenging and longest hike in New Zealand, here it is.

Tips & FAQS About Hiking in the South Island

My New Zealand Hiking Wishlist

I've hiked and reviewed every trail listed above. However, hiking every trail in the South Island is a life-long mission. Here are some additional trails I'm looking to add to my next trip.

• The Rees-Dart Track
• Isthmus Peak
• Bealey Spur Track
• Lake Marian
• Gertrude Saddle
• Heaphy Track
• Abel Tasman Coastal Track
• Key Summit Track

If you find an awesome South Island hike that you think deserves to be on this list, let other travelers know by leaving a comment below! Otherwise, check out more of my New Zealand travel and adventure guides below!

• 36 Amazing Places to Visit in the South Island - my most comprehensive travel guide that is useful to help you find the best places to visit on your trip to the South Island
• Top Things to Do in Queenstown: Explore Queenstown's top hikes, epic adrenaline activities, and hidden gems.
• Arthur's Pass Travel Guide: Dive into the heart of Arthur's Pass with my guide to the best places to visit.
• Best Mount Cook National Park Hikes: A hiking guide to the most scenic trails beneath Mount Cook.
• Best Views of Mount Cook: Discover the top spots to witness New Zealand's Aoraki peak in all its glory.
• Epic Things to do at Milford Sound: Explore 21 unique ideas get inspired to visit Milford Sound!
• Catlins' Hidden Gems: Uncover the Catlins' best-kept secrets, from waterfalls to wild coastlines.
• Accommodation Resources: Plan where to stay in Queenstown and discover the amazing Tekapo Lake Hotels.