What’s Queenstown known for?
There are plenty of reasons to take a campervan road trip around New Zealand, but Queenstown, in particular, takes the cake. Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and framed by the dramatic Southern Alps, this town is a sanctuary for tranquillity and thrills, jam-packed with incredible views and things to do:
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Adventure Hub: This town has a long-standing reputation for thrilling sports, from bungee jumping to skiing and more!
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Natural Beauty: Queenstown is a hub for nature lovers, offering access to serene hikes near Queenstown, captivating walks around Queenstown, and breathtaking landscapes.
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Unique Climate: This region's unique climate and geography make it a year-round destination for outdoor activities (ideal conditions for walking tracks around Queenstown).
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Foodie Haven: Queenstown is also a culinary haven, with a vibrant dining scene that complements its world-class vineyards. For a bit of inspiration, check out our guide to the must-do food and wine experiences in New Zealand.
In short, Queenstown's ability to merge the adrenaline of outdoor sports with the serene walks around Queenstown and the calm of its natural vistas is unmatched, making it a pivotal stop on any New Zealand itinerary.
The best way to explore Queenstown?
While Queenstown's compact size might suggest otherwise, the best way to embrace its vast, natural beauty is undoubtedly with a campervan. The flexibility of a motorhome allows travellers to take the scenic route, discover hidden gems, and stop at breathtaking viewpoints at their leisure. With a campervan, travellers can create a travel itinerary as dynamic as the landscape of the South Island, making it the ultimate choice for those on a New Zealand road trip.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
The best walks and hikes near Queenstown
Queenstown is a treasure trove of outdoor activities, with walks and hikes that cater to all levels of fitness and adventure spirit. From leisurely strolls by crystal-clear lakes to challenging hikes around Queenstown’s rugged peaks, the region offers a multitude of paths leading to promising vistas. In the following sections, we'll explore some of the best walks around Queenstown that showcase the natural splendour of this region.
1. Lake Sylvan Track
Walking time: 1.5 to 2 hours round trip
Difficulty: Easy
A jewel within Mount Aspiring National Park, the Lake Sylvan Track is a testament to the ancient landscapes that shape this region. The easy-to-navigate hiking trail in Queenstown meanders through old moraine river terraces and dense forests of red beech, culminating at the serene Lake Sylvan. This walking track near Queenstown is ideal for families and those seeking a gentle day hike. The track offers an intimate look at the area's rich biodiversity, including the chance to spot native birds and the elusive southern crayfish in the lake's clear waters.
The round trip can be completed in approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. In addition to the drive from Queenstown to the Lake Sylvan Track taking about an hour, this makes this one of the best hikes around Queenstown for a half-day adventure. This accessibility and the beauty of the trail make it a must-visit for anyone interested in hiking trails near Queenstown to immerse themselves in the tranquillity of New Zealand's natural landscapes.
Top Tip: It is recommended to explore this hiking trail near Queenstown during the summer months.
2. Queenstown Hill Track
Walking time: 2 to 3 hours round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
For those looking for a rewarding hike with panoramic views, the Queenstown Hill Track is an ideal choice. This hiking trail in Queenstown, often referred to as the Time Walk, leads hikers on a journey through time, represented by several information plaques detailing the area's history along the way. The walk is moderately challenging and takes approximately 2 to 3 hours, ascending to a summit adorned with the iconic "Basket of Dreams" sculpture. From here, hikers are treated to sweeping vistas of Queenstown, the Remarkables, Lake Wakatipu, and beyond, making the climb well worth the effort. The trailhead is conveniently located a short drive, or even a walkable distance, from the centre of Queenstown, making it one of the best walks in Queenstown for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region without venturing too far.
3. Routeburn Track
Walking time: 2 to 4 days (varies based on chosen section)
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Embarking on the Routeburn Track offers an immersive journey through some of the most diverse and stunning landscapes New Zealand has to offer. Recognised as one of New Zealand's Great Walks, this multi-day hike near Queenstown (typically taking 2-4 days to complete) starts near Glenorchy, a scenic 45-minute drive from Queenstown. The track weaves through ancient beech forests, alongside crystal-clear rivers, and over majestic mountain passes, providing hikers with a sense of solitude and connection to the untouched wilderness. Along the way, the inspiring views of the Hollyford Valley down to the Tasman Sea are unmatched, showcasing the dramatic beauty of Fiordland National Park. The Routeburn Track is a moderate to challenging hiking trail in Queenstown, catering to those with a good level of fitness and an appetite for adventure.
4. Ben Lomond Loop Track
Walking time: 6 to 8 hours round trip
Difficulty: Moderate to Advanced
Located within the Ben Lomond Scenic Reserve, the Ben Lomond Loop Track offers a challenging hike near Queenstown that rewards travellers with spectacular views of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown, and the surrounding mountains. The track takes approximately 6 to 8 hours to complete, making it an ideal day hike near Queenstown for those seeking to explore the area. The path ascends through native beech forest before opening up to tussock-covered slopes, leading hikers to the summit of Ben Lomond. For those looking to challenge themselves further, the summit offers breathtaking 360-degree views. The trailhead is easily accessible from Queenstown, requiring only a short drive or a hearty walk from the town centre.
Top Tip: This hike near Queenstown does experience seasonal closures. In winter, it's essential to carry and know how to use alpine gear, including avalanche safety devices, ice axes, and crampons. The trail conditions can vary, becoming very slippery or muddy, so be sure to check the seasonal restrictions before setting out on your hike.
5. Moke Lake Loop Track
Walking time: 2 to 3 hours round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Moke Lake, situated just a brief drive from Queenstown, provides a picturesque setting for the Moke Lake Loop Track. This easy, family-friendly walk circles the serene lake, offering stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains on calm days. The loop is approximately 2 to 3 hours long, making it perfect for a leisurely afternoon hike near Queenstown. The area's tranquillity and natural beauty make it a favoured spot for picnics, photography, and simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. What’s more, the drive in your campervan to Moke Lake takes you through some of Queenstown's most scenic landscapes, adding to the overall experience of visiting this enchanting hiking spot.
6. Tiki Trail
Walking time: 1 to 2 hours one-way
Difficulty: Moderate
The Tiki Trail is a steep but rewarding climb starting at the base of the Skyline Gondola up to Bob's Peak. This hike in Queenstown offers a vigorous workout, with a walking time of about 1 to 2 hours to reach the summit. As you ascend, the trail unveils expansive views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the Remarkables, especially mesmerising at sunrise or sunset. The trail's proximity to Queenstown makes it easily accessible, and for those looking for a less strenuous descent, the Skyline Gondola offers a scenic return journey. This hike near Queenstown is a popular choice for those seeking a quick adventure with stunning city and lake views, proving to be one of the best hikes from Queenstown for capturing the essence of the town’s natural beauty.
7. Lake Alta Track
Walking time: 2 to 3 hours round trip
Difficulty: Advanced
Tucked away in the Remarkables Conservation Area, the Lake Alta Track offers an invigorating hike to a stunning alpine lake nestled among the peaks. This moderately challenging hiking trail near Queenstown is best tackled in the summer months, when the paths are clear of snow, revealing the full splendour of the alpine scenery. The hike to Lake Alta takes about 2 to 3 hours round trip, rewarding those who venture with stunning mountain vistas and the tranquil beauty of Lake Alta itself. The trail's starting point is a leisurely 40-minute drive from Queenstown, making it another perfect hike near Queenstown for a day trip to experience the pristine nature of the Remarkables.
Top Tip: This walk near Queenstown is challenging to access in the winter months as it runs through an operational ski field. While you are able to explore this in the winter if you are an advanced hiker with the right equipment, if you are a new hiker, we recommend saving this one for your summer New Zealand itinerary.
8. Bob’s Cove Track
Walking time: 1 to 2 hours round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Bob’s Cove Track, just a 15-minute drive from Queenstown, is one of the best walking tracks in Queenstown, offering picturesque views along Lake Wakatipu's shores. This easy trail is perfect for all ages, featuring a relatively flat path that makes it accessible for a leisurely walk or a family outing. In addition to stunning lake and mountain views, the area around Bob's Cove is rich with native bush and historical sites, including Maori carvings. The track provides opportunities for swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the cove and picnicking in scenic spots, making it a beloved destination for locals and visitors. This is hands down one of the best walks in Queenstown year-round!
9. Sawpit Gully Loop Track
Walking time: 2 to 3 hours round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
A 20-minute drive from Queenstown brings you to the charming historic town of Arrowtown, the starting point for the Sawpit Gully Loop Track. This peaceful trail, winding through beech forests and past picturesque streams, offers a tranquil retreat into nature. The loop is a moderate hike, taking around 2 to 3 hours to complete, and features historic gold-mining sites along the way, providing a glimpse into the area's rich past. The Sawpit Gully Loop is an excellent option for those looking to combine scenic beauty with a touch of history.
10. Jack’s Point Track
Walking time: 1 to 4 hours round trip (depending on the chosen section)
Difficulty: Moderate
Jack’s Point Track lies approximately a 20-minute drive from Queenstown and is renowned for its breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range. Suitable for walkers of all skill levels, this hike near Queenstown meanders through open grasslands and tussock slopes, highlighting the distinctive beauty of the Central Otago landscape. The track, which can take anywhere from 1 to 4 hours to complete depending on the chosen route, is an excellent way to experience the natural grandeur of the region at your own pace. The best part? This is a perfect option for hiking in Queenstown, New Zealand, year-round!
Where to stay in Queenstown
When tackling these hikes around Queenstown, having a comfortable and convenient base to come back to at the end of the day can make all the difference. For those travelling in a campervan, here are two standout accommodations for where to stay in Queenstown when exploring the best hiking trails near Queenstown:
Image: Tourism New Zealand
Queenstown Lakeview Park and Arrowtown Holiday Park
Queenstown Lakeview Park offers a prime location with breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains. Its facilities cater to campervan travellers, providing essential services such as powered sites, laundry, and kitchen facilities. Best of all, its proximity to Queenstown's town centre makes it an ideal spot for those who wish to explore the local dining and entertainment while staying close to nature.
Arrowtown Holiday Park
Arrowtown Holiday Park is nestled in the historic gold-mining town of Arrowtown, just 20 minutes from Queenstown. The park provides plenty of great sites for campervans, as well as top-notch facilities such as communal kitchens, barbecue areas, and bike hire services to enhance the stay.
Ready to explore Queenstown?
Queenstown's breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures await. From serene lakeside walks to challenging mountain treks, there are hikes around Queenstown for every type of traveller. Best of all, staying in a campervan provides the freedom to explore these natural wonders at your own pace. Ready to explore the best hikes near Queenstown? Book your maui motorhome online today and pick it up from any maui branch before starting your New Zealand itinerary through Queenstown and beyond.