Ready to explore the breathtaking beauty of Mount Cook National Park?

Whether you're a hiking enthusiast, a relaxation seeker, or someone looking for a perfect mix of both, this two-day itinerary will have you marveling at glaciers, indulging in local delicacies, and soaking in some of the most stunning views New Zealand has to offer.

So pack your hiking boots and a sense of adventure—let’s dive in!

Hooker Valley Track has amazing views throughout the hike. 🏔️

Day 1: Adventure, Glaciers, and Sunset Magic

Morning: Start Strong with the Hooker Valley Track 🌄

To kick off your Mount Cook escapade, lace up your boots and hit the Hooker Valley Track. This 3-hour return hike is one of New Zealand's most iconic trails, offering jaw-dropping views of the Southern Alps, suspension bridges, and a glacier-filled finale.

What Makes It Special: The trail is beginner-friendly with minimal elevation, so you can focus on the views instead of gasping for breath. Plus, every corner reveals a new slice of alpine paradise!
Pro Tips:

Start early to beat the summer heat and crowds.
Bring plenty of water and snacks—there’s just one ablution stop along the way.
Don’t forget your camera; the final glacier view will blow your mind!

Afternoon: Glide Through Glacier Paradise at Tasman Lake ❄️

After conquering Hooker Valley, take it easy with a visit to Tasman Lake for a guided boat trip. The easy 1.5km walk to the lake is a breeze, and once aboard, you’ll get up-close views of towering glaciers that are nothing short of awe-inspiring.

Why It’s a Must-Do: Seeing ancient ice formations this close is a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Time Commitment: The whole trip takes about 2.5 hours, so you’ll have plenty of time to relax and soak it all in.

Insider Tip: Secure your pass early at the visitor center, as these tours can fill up fast.

Evening: Buffet Dinner with a View 🍽️

After a day of adventure, reward yourself with a hearty buffet dinner at the Mount Cook Visitor Centre. With panoramic views of Mount Cook, this dining experience combines delicious food with a visual feast.

Why You’ll Love It: From spring to autumn, you can dine while watching the sun linger over the mountains, creating an unforgettable ambiance.
Pro Tip: Book early—this is the only dinner spot in the area, and tables fill up quickly!

Twilight: Kea Point Stroll Before Sunset 🌅

Cap off your day with a peaceful evening walk on the Kea Point Track. This level trail offers views of Mount Sefton, the glacier moraine, and Hooker Valley as the sun dips below the peaks.

The Bonus: Keep your eyes peeled for cheeky kea birds—they’re mischievous but add a playful charm to the experience.
Why It’s Perfect: It’s a serene way to wind down and reflect on the day’s adventures before calling it a night.

After dinner stroll on Kea Point Track 😎

Look out for these little guys on Kea Point Track, which are more often than not spotted in the carpark tearing car parts apart! 🐦

Day 2: Stairway to Alpine Heaven and a Taste of Salmon

Morning: Take on the Red Tarns Track 🥾

Rise and shine! It’s time for a workout with the Red Tarns Track, a steep but rewarding hike offering a fresh perspective of Mount Cook.

What to Expect:

A 3-hour round trip with plenty of stairs (around 300 meters of elevation gain).
Stunning views that evolve with every step as you climb through different vegetation zones.
The tarns themselves (small alpine pools) at the top reflect the surrounding peaks, creating an Instagram-worthy photo op!

Pro Tip: Bring plenty of water and take it slow—those stairs are no joke, but the views are worth it!

Afternoon: Savor Mount Cook Salmon 🐟

As you bid farewell to the national park, stop at a local salmon farm for some of the freshest seafood around. Pairing this delicious treat with views of Mount Cook in your rearview mirror is the perfect way to end your trip.

Why It’s a Must: The salmon here is melt-in-your-mouth fresh, and the setting makes it taste even better.

Look over Lake Pukaki and towards Mount Cook National Park.

Feeling Extra Adventurous? Bonus Tracks for Day 2

For those with energy to spare, challenge yourself with one of these tougher trails:

Mueller Hut Route: A full-day hike with steep climbs and epic views—it’s an adventure you’ll never forget.
Sealy Tarns Track: A shorter but equally challenging 3-hour trail with rewarding vistas at the top.

Both tracks will push your limits, but the heart-pounding climbs come with unforgettable rewards: sweeping panoramas of Mount Cook and its surrounding peaks.

Why Mount Cook National Park Should Be on Your Bucket List

This two-day itinerary is just a taste of what Mount Cook has to offer. With its glacier-filled landscapes, stunning hiking trails, and opportunities to unwind with great food and views, it’s a destination that blends adventure and relaxation seamlessly.

So, grab your gear, charge your camera, and get ready for an alpine escape you’ll be talking about for years to come. Mount Cook is calling—are you ready to answer? 🏔️✨