Blue Lakes and Tasman Glacier View Walk

Loop

Highlights & Must-See Features

The undeniable "hero" of this walk is the view of the Haupapa/Tasman Glacier. At roughly 23 kilometres long, it is an icy giant. From the viewpoint, you can see the terminal face where the ice meets the water. If you’re lucky, you might even hear the thunderous "crack" of ice calving into the lake. Look closely at the water; even in the height of summer, you will often see massive icebergs floating serenely in the lake, looking like jagged white diamonds against the opaque glacial water.

Then, there are the Blue Lakes. This is one of the most famous "misnomers" in New Zealand hiking. Back in the mid-1800s, these lakes were fed by glacial meltwater, which filtered through the moraine and turned them a stunning, vivid blue. However, as the Tasman Glacier has shrunk and lowered in height, the meltwater no longer reaches these ponds. Today, they are fed by rainwater. This warmer water supports the growth of green algae, meaning the "Blue Lakes" are now a deep, stunning emerald green.

Despite the colour change, they are a highlight of the loop. They offer a tranquil, sheltered contrast to the wind-whipped glacier viewpoint. In the summer months, the lakes warm up just enough for the truly brave to take a "refreshing" (read: freezing) alpine dip.

Getting There

To get to the trailhead, follow State Highway 80 all the way into Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park. Instead of heading into the main village, look for the signposted turn-off for Tasman Valley Road on your right. Follow this road for about 7km until you reach the end.

The Tasman Glacier Car Park (also known as the Blue Lakes Car Park) has ample parking, though it can get busy during the peak summer hours (10 am – 2 pm). There are public toilets and a sturdy shelter at the car park, which is a great place to double-check your gear and lace up your boots before heading out.

Wildlife Spotting

Keep your eyes on the skies and your ears open for the distinct "kee-aa!" call of New Zealand’s most famous alpine resident: the Kea. These incredibly intelligent (and notoriously cheeky) mountain parrots are commonly seen around the car park and the rocky viewpoints. While they are a joy to watch, please remember they are an endangered species—never feed them, as it habituates them to humans and can make them sick.

As you walk through the scrubbier sections of the track, you’ll likely be joined by the Fantail (Pīwakawaka), who flit around hikers to catch the insects stirred up by your footsteps. If you are a keen birdwatcher, keep a lookout for the New Zealand Falcon (Kārearea) soaring near the cliffs, or the tiny Rifleman (Tītitipounamu)—New Zealand's smallest bird—bouncing through the vegetation. On very rare occasions, the endangered Kaki (Black Stilt) can be seen in the braided riverbeds nearby.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

Aoraki/Mt Cook is a place of extremes, and this walk changes character significantly with the seasons.

• Spring: This is a fantastic time to visit as the snow is still thick on the high peaks, but the track is usually clear. The waterfalls cascading down the valley walls are at their most powerful.
• Summer: The best time for spotting icebergs and taking a dip in the (green) Blue Lakes. The days are long, but the sun is incredibly intense at this altitude.
• Autumn: Expect crisp, clear days and incredibly stable weather. This is often the best time for photography, as the light is softer and the air is very still.
• Winter: The track can be covered in snow or ice, making the rock steps slippery. If you’re visiting in winter, sturdy boots with good grip are essential. The view of a frozen landscape is truly magical.

• Best time to start: Aim for early morning (before 9 am) or late afternoon. Not only will you beat the tour bus crowds, but the "golden hour" light hitting Aoraki/Mt Cook and the surrounding peaks is breathtaking.
• Weather: The weather here can change in an instant. The Nor’west winds can roar down the valley with incredible force. Even if it looks sunny in the car park, bring a windproof/waterproof layer.
• Sun protection: The alpine sun is fierce. Wear a hat and high-SPF sunscreen, even on cloudy days.
• Footwear: While it’s an "easy" walk, the 300 rock steps require sturdy footwear. Leave the flip-flops in the car!

Local & Regional Context

The area holds immense significance for the local Māori iwi (tribe), Ngāi Tahu. To them, Aoraki is the most sacred of ancestors, representing the link between the supernatural and the natural world. The glacier itself is known as Haupapa, and its retreat is a poignant reminder of our changing climate.

Geologically, you are standing in a landscape that is still being shaped. The Tasman Glacier is retreating rapidly, a process that began in the 1970s and has led to the formation of the Tasman Lake. By walking this trail, you are witnessing a "young" landscape; the lake didn't even exist 50 years ago. It’s a powerful place to reflect on the sheer scale of geological time.

After the Walk

Once you’ve finished the loop and worked up an appetite, head 7.5km back down the road to Aoraki/Mt Cook Village. There are three standout spots to refuel:

1. Old Mountaineers' Cafe, Bar & Restaurant: This is an absolute icon. Officially opened by Sir Edmund Hillary himself, it’s packed with historic photographs and mountaineering memorabilia. It’s the perfect place for a local beer or an organic coffee while looking out at the mountains. The atmosphere is warm, inviting, and quintessentially "Kiwi."
2. The Sir Edmund Hillary Café & Bar: Located inside The Hermitage Hotel, this is great for a more casual bite. They do excellent burgers and pizzas, and the floor-to-ceiling windows offer what might be the best café view in the entire world.
3. The Panorama Restaurant: If you’ve finished your walk later in the day and want to treat yourself, this is the spot for a refined dinner. It focuses on fresh, seasonal local ingredients—just make sure you book ahead, as it’s a popular spot for a reason!

The Blue Lakes and Tasman Glacier View Walk is more than just a quick leg-stretch; it’s an immersion into the very best of New Zealand’s alpine heart. Grab your camera, respect the Kea, and enjoy the view!

7.5km away

Located within The Hermitage Hotel, this restaurant offers a refined dining experience with a seasonal menu crafted from fresh local ingredients, all enjoyed against a backdrop of spectacular alpine mountain vistas. Reservations are essential.