Queenstown is THE place to visit when travelling to New Zealand, and it is absolutely no surprise why. Crystal clear lakes, majestic mountains, snowy peaks, and a ridiculous number of incredible hikes.
It’s not called the adventure capital of the world for nothing.
Queenstown is a hiker’s paradise, home to some of the best trails in New Zealand. From epic full-day trails like Ben Lomond to short but rewarding treks like Queenstown Hill. There is a trail in Queenstown for every hike, whether beginner or advanced.
I’m a North Island girly through and through, born and raised by the beach. However, there is just something (*cough* mountains *cough*) about Queenstown that keeps me returning time and time again.
The BEST Day Hikes in Queenstown
Queenstown is home to some of the best hikes I’ve ever done in my life. The views are absolutely unbelievable, and the challenge burns (in a good way). Here are my top picks for the best day hikes in Queenstown:
1. Ben Lomond
I’ve hiked Ben Lomond twice now, and both were absolutely spectacular. The first time I hiked Ben Lomon, it was early September and we were rewarded with absolutely spectacular snowy mountain views.
The hike starts from the base of the Skyline Gondola, up the famous “Tiki Trail”. To be honest with you, this was my least favourite part of the hike, and if you want. It was tucked away under a thick layer of forest, however, it did mean that by the time you got to the start of the Ben Lomond track, you really appreciated that first time when you got to speak at the summit.
Tip: You can take the Skyline Gondola up to skip the Tiki Trail part of the hike out.
On this first attempt, my friends and I ended up turning back at the saddle. The snow got pretty thick after that point, and we were not equipped with all the right gear. A few of the girls ended up slipping and sliding their way down as they were just in trainers – no hiking boots!
The second time I hiked Ben Lomond, it was February, and there was no snow to be seen! So, we made it to the summit. It was a bloody challenging finisher from the saddle to the summit – but the views that you are rewarded with from the top make it SO worth it.
- Time: 6-8 hour return
- Distance: 11km
- Elevation: 1400m
2. Sugarloaf Pass
Ok, folks – let me tell you about the Sugarloaf Pass hike! This hike is one of the most underrated trails around Queenstown.
Starting the hike, you’ll find yourself climbing steeply on a rough, challenging track, but trust me, it’s so worth it. As you make your way up, you’ll reach these beautiful tarns with incredible views over the surrounding mountains. The scenery is just breathtaking – you can see down towards Glenorchy and Lake Wakatipu.
The best part? You’ll probably have the views all to yourself. It’s such a peaceful and serene experience, unlike the more crowded trails around Queenstown.
- Time: 5-7 hours return
- Distance: 10km
- Elevation: 700m
3. Glacier Burn
The Glacier Burn track is another hidden treasure near Queenstown that doesn’t get the attention it rightfully deserves (lucky for us, that means quiet tracks!)
This trail starts near Kinloch and Glenorchy. You begin by climbing steeply through a gorgeous beech forest, which feels like a scene right out of a fairytale. As you ascend, you’ll reach an awe-inspiring cirque framed by hanging glaciers and cascading waterfalls.
The views are just stunning, with occasional glimpses back towards Glenorchy and Lake Wakatipu. It’s got all the amazing vibes of Earnslaw Burn but is way easier to get to and only takes a few hours instead of a whole day.
This hike is perfect when you want an epic adventure without a huge time commitment. Plus, it’s way less crowded, so you can really enjoy the tranquillity and natural beauty.
- Time: 3-4 hours return
- Distance: 7.3km
- Elevation: 630m
4. Rock Peak
Rock Peak is a track between Queenstown and Wanaka that involves a steady climb from the Crown Range Saddle carpark to the summit and its antenna. The route is nearly entirely on a 4WD track, which zig-zags you up, so it’s pretty simple to follow.
The best part? The views are absolutely stunning. On a clear day, you can even catch sight of Tititea / Mt Aspiring. I’d recommend turning left at the track and manoeuvring along the tussocks to get the best views 🙂
- Time: 3-4 hours return
- Distance: 8km
- Elevation: 420m
5. Moonlight Track
Starting from the Moke Lake campsite, you’ll follow the Ben Lomond Station farm road above Moke Creek. Along the way, you’ll pass by the remnants of an old mining settlement called Sefferstown – pretty cool, right?
When the farm road forks, just take the track to the right. You’ll pass a sign to Ben Lomond Saddle and turn right onto the Moonlight Track to Arthurs Point.
The final leg takes you past huge terraces (more remnants from the gold rush). If you look down below, you can see the Shotover River, where you can watch the boats jet through along the canyon. The views are top-notch, and the history that you get to see is pretty unique.
- Time: 3-4 hours return
- Distance: 9.7km
- Elevation: 540m
The BEST Short Walks in Queenstown
If you’re keen for a walk in Queenstown to soak in the gorgeous views, but not quite up for a full-on hike… these ones are for you:
6. Queenstown Hill
If you’re up for a super popular and fairly easy hike in Queenstown, the Queenstown Hill trail is a must-do. Starting right in town, the trail winds its way up Queenstown Hill until you reach the Basket of Dreams – a steel sculpture that’s all about inspiring dreams. It’s a perfect spot to sit back and bask in the breathtaking views over Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu.
But hey, the adventure doesn’t have to stop there! You can keep going for another 10 minutes to reach the real summit of Queenstown Hill. From the top, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Queenstown and the Remarkables Mountain Range. Totally worth the extra effort!
The trail is well-maintained, and it takes around 90 minutes to walk up at a leisurely pace. If you only have time for one short walk in Queenstown, make it this one!
- Time: 2-3 hours return
- Distance: 5km
- Elevation: 600m
7. Lake Alta
Alright, let me tell you about one of my favourite hikes in Queenstown: the trail to Lake Alta. This hike offers some serious bang for your buck. It’s set beneath towering peaks, and it’s relatively easy since most of the elevation gain happens while driving up to The Remarkables Ski Field carpark.
However, the good news is – the trail itself is only 1.75 km (1 mile) one way! The journey starts from The Remarkables Ski Field, which is already 1,200 m (3,937 ft) above Queenstown. The drive up is steep and windy, and it costs $10 NZD per vehicle during the summer months. But trust me, it is worth it!
From the parking lot, you’ll hike even higher along the trail and scramble up the hillside to reach the stunning Lake Alta. The alpine lake, nestled beneath majestic peaks, is simply breathtaking. It’s the perfect spot to relax and take in the scenery. If you’re up for more adventure, you can continue hiking up to the saddle for an epic birds-eye view.
- Time: 2 hours return
- Distance: 2.4km
- Elevation: 200m
8. Bob’s Cove
Bob’s Cove Track is one of Queenstown’s most well-known walks, and for good reason. It’s a beautiful short hike that starts just off Glenorchy Road (about a 20-minute drive from Queenstown). Fair warning, the small car park can get pretty packed during summer, but don’t let that deter you!
This very short but stunning trail leads to a viewpoint high above Bob’s Cove, offering breathtaking views of The Remarkables, Lake Wakatipu, Bob’s Cove, and the surrounding peninsula. The scenery is absolutely spectacular, and the best part is that it only takes about 30 minutes to reach the viewpoint from the trailhead at a relaxed pace.
Although the trail is popular, it’s definitely worth continuing around the bay to climb up to the lookout. The views are simply incredible, and it’s a great spot to sit back and take it all in.
Bob’s Cove is about a 20-minute drive from Queenstown.
- Time: 1-1.5 hours return
- Distance: 3km
- Elevation: <100m
9. Moke Lake Loop
Moke Lake is hands down one of my favourite spots near Queenstown. While it might not be as quiet as it used to be, it’s still an absolutely beautiful place to explore or spend the night at the DOC campsite – especially if you’re campervanning around New Zealand!
Walking around the lake is a nice, short stroll without too much climbing – perfect for a relaxing outing. But if you’re up for a bit more adventure and want even better views, you should totally climb up to the not-so-secret lookout. It’s an unofficial, unmarked, and unmaintained track, but the views are so worth it.
- Time: 2-3 hours return
- Distance: 6km
- Elevation: <50m
10. Wye Creek Lookout
One of the coolest hikes I’ve done in Queenstown is the Wye Creek Track, which was actually recommended by a friend who climbs here!
You start by parking at the marked car park near Wye Creek on Devil’s Staircase Road. The hike begins with a short walk along a gravel access road before officially starting the trail. The climb is steep, starting with a 4WD track and then a slippery trail. When you reach the dam over Wye Creek, turn right and follow the water pipe up the path.
You’ll find yourself on a narrow wooden walkway on top of a pipeline, which can be a bit scary if you’re afraid of heights, so keep that in mind. Just before you cross the next stream, look to your left and slightly up the hill to find the helipad – it’s a beautiful lookout with fantastic views.
And if you’re feeling really adventurous, the Wye Creek Trail can take you all the way up to Lake Alta on The Remarkables. Just a heads-up, though – it’s a 6 to 8-hour hike each way!
The trail is a little challenging in some sections, but the views and the experience make it totally worth it.
- Time: 1.5-2 hours return
- Distance: 4km
- Elevation: 300m
Final Thoughts on the Best Day Hikes in Queenstown
I hope at least one of these hikes tickled your fancy! Each is rewarding in its own way.
If you have any questions or other suggestions, please let me know in the comments 🙂