Description

Enjoy the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Southern Alps/K Tiritiri o te Moana on one of New Zealand's best day hikes - wind up the Hooker Valley past alpine streams and glaciers in the shadow of Aoraki/Mount Cook. 10 km return via same track, approx 3 hours. The track leads through the sacred Tpuni area of the Hooker Valley, which has special significance and values to Ngi Tahu iwi, towards Aoraki/Mount Cook. From the first of three swing bridges along the way, enjoy the views over the Mueller Lake and listen for the rumbling of avalanches from the distant Mount Sefton. Try to spot them before they crash into the Mueller Glacier below. After crossing the Hooker River, the track goes between old moraine ridges and humps. From the second swing bridge, the vegetation changes to more open tussock and a wider valley floor. A third swing bridge leads to the East Hooker and the source of the Hooker River. The track ends with an amazing view over the iceberg-speckled Hooker Lake and up to majestic Aoraki/Mount Cook and the Southern Alps/K Tiritiri o te Moana. Return on the same track, enjoying more views down valley and across to the Sealy Range. The best time to walk this stunning track is at dawn when you can view the first rays of the sun creeping over the Southern Alps, including over New Zealand's highest peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook. Early risers will be rewarded with the serenity of sharing the track with only a handful of other walkers along its 10k m length. The track starts at the White Horse Hill Campground and car park at the end of Hooker Valley Road. Toilets are located at White Horse Hill Campground at the start, and at Stocking Stream halfway along the walk. Picnic tables are located just past the second swing bridge and at the Hooker Lake lookout. Mobile phone connection is possible for most of the track. No dogs.