Why Wānaka is a hiker’s paradise
Wānaka ticks a lot of boxes when it comes to hiking. Think alpine ridgelines, shady beech forests, lakeside tracks and trails that lead to waterfalls — sometimes all in the same day.
And whether you’re travelling with kids or you’re keen to tackle a tougher climb, there’s a track nearby that’ll suit your pace and energy levels. Many of the popular walks start just a short drive from town, so it’s easy to head out for a few hours or settle in for a solid day on the trails.
What makes Wānaka even better is how it shifts with the seasons. In summer, the longer daylight hours make it easy to squeeze in evening walks. Come autumn, the hills around town put on a show with golden leaves and cooler temps that make walking more comfortable. Even in winter, the snow-capped peaks and crisp, clear days can make for memorable hikes — just keep an eye on trail conditions. No matter the season, you’re never far from native birdsong, fresh alpine air, and those wide open views that are impossible not to stop and photograph.
Exploring as a couple? Take a look at our guide to the 12 most romantic things to do in Wānaka.
Best short walks in Wānaka (easy & family-friendly)
If you’re travelling with little legs in tow or just want something light before hitting the road again, Wānaka has a good mix of short, scenic tracks that don’t skimp on the views. These walks are all easy to reach by campervan and make great stops between longer drives or lazy afternoons by the lake.
Mount Iron Track (1.5–2 hours)
This popular loop track is a firm favourite with locals — and it’s easy to see why. The Mount Iron Track climbs steadily to a viewpoint that gives you a full 360-degree view over Wānaka, the Clutha River, and the surrounding ranges. It’s a well-formed trail that’s suitable for most ages, though the incline can be a decent workout in places. There are shorter return options if you're not keen on the full loop. It starts just a few minutes from town and there’s parking available. Although the carpark can fill up quickly, especially on sunny days, so arriving early is a good call. Pack a windbreaker — it can be breezy at the top.
Lake Wānaka Tree Walk (30 minutes – 1 hour)
You’ve probably seen the photo — now’s your chance to see that tree up close. The Lake Wānaka Tree Walk is a flat, lakeside path that starts near the town centre and follows the shoreline towards the famous willow tree standing solo in the water. It’s an easy, stroller-friendly walk with plenty of spots to stop and take photos, skip stones, or have a picnic. It’s especially lovely in the early morning or late afternoon when the lake is calm and the light is soft. Parking is available nearby, but this is one of the busiest photo spots in town, so timing it outside peak hours is worth it.
Waterfall Creek Track (1.5–2 hours)
For a walk that combines lake views, forest sections, and a peaceful finish at a quiet beach, the Waterfall Creek Track is a solid pick. Starting near the Wānaka Tree, it follows the lake’s edge out to Waterfall Creek and the historic Rippon Vineyard. The trail is mostly flat and easy underfoot, with a mix of open and shaded stretches — great on a warm day. It’s a good option for families, and those with a bit more time can continue on to Glendhu Bay. There’s space to park a campervan at either end, though the spot at Waterfall Creek is smaller, so try the town side if you’re in a larger vehicle.
Best half-day walks around Wānaka (moderate difficulty)
With a mix of lakeside trails and steady climbs, these half-day hikes offer rewarding views and a good dose of fresh air without eating into your entire schedule.
Diamond Lake & Rocky Mountain Track (2–3 hours)
This walk gives you a lot of payoff for a modest amount of effort. Starting with a short climb up to Diamond Lake, the track then heads higher, looping around Rocky Mountain and delivering wide views across Lake Wānaka and the surrounding peaks. It’s well signposted with a few different route options, so you can choose a shorter lookout loop or commit to the full summit circuit. The trail can get muddy after rain, so good footwear is a must. There’s a car park at the base with enough space to park a campervan — though it’s on the smaller side, so early starts are a good idea.
Isthmus Peak Track (5–6 hours return)
Often overlooked in favour of Roys Peak, the Isthmus Peak Track offers a quieter (but no less scenic) option. The track starts near Lake Hāwea and climbs steadily through farmland before reaching open ridgelines with panoramic lake views. It’s a solid climb, so expect a workout — but you’ll be rewarded with fewer crowds and uninterrupted views across both lakes. The return time pushes into full-day territory, but fit walkers can manage it in under six hours. Note that the track is closed for lambing from 20 October to 20 December. Parking is available at the trailhead, but it's quite limited — so again, early arrival helps if you’re in a larger vehicle.
Glendhu Bay Track (3–4 hours return)
This scenic lakeside trail is a great middle-ground walk — not too steep but long enough to feel like you’ve had a proper outing. The Glendhu Bay Track follows the edge of Lake Wānaka from town to Glendhu Bay, with steady terrain and sweeping water views the whole way. It’s ideal for those travelling with teens or confident walkers who aren’t looking for anything too technical. You can start the walk from either end, depending on where you’re parked — there’s space for campervans at Glendhu Bay and at the Wānaka end near the Wānaka Tree. Pack a lunch and make the most of one of the picnic spots along the way, or enjoy a break by the lake when you reach the bay.
Best full-day hikes in Wānaka (challenging & adventurous)
These trails require a bit more time and effort, but the sense of accomplishment — and the views — make it well worth it. Pack plenty of water, layer up for changing conditions, and check the forecast before heading out.
Roys Peak Track (5–7 hours return)
This is the hike most people have heard of — and yes, it’s popular for a reason. The Roys Peak Track is a steady uphill climb that delivers a high-alpine panorama overlooking Lake Wānaka and the surrounding peaks. The trail itself is a wide farm track, which makes the walking straightforward — but don’t underestimate the climb. It’s a consistent ascent with little shade, so sun protection is a must on warmer days. There are a couple of classic photo spots along the way, including the iconic ridgeline shot, so expect to share the trail, especially during peak season. The car park has limited space and doesn’t allow overnight camping, so it’s worth arriving early if you’re travelling by campervan.
Breast Hill Track (via Timaru Creek) (6–8 hours return)
For those keen to get well off the beaten path, the Breast Hill Track via Timaru Creek offers one of the more rugged full-day experiences near Wānaka. It’s a solid climb through high country farmland, alpine tussock, and exposed ridgelines — with a high point that delivers sweeping views across Lake Hāwea and out to the Southern Alps. The terrain is steeper and more remote than some of the more well-trodden tracks in the area, so it’s best suited to confident, experienced walkers with a good level of fitness. You'll need to navigate a gravel road to reach the Timaru Creek car park — it’s accessible by campervan, though conditions can vary, especially after rain. Once you’re on the trail, expect a quieter, more challenging hike that feels far removed from the town’s buzz. Bring plenty of water and be prepared for changeable weather — this one earns its rewards.
Walks near Wānaka worth the drive
These spots offer a change of scenery — from glacier-fed rivers to lush forest trails — and they’re all reachable in under an hour’s drive, making them ideal for day trips with the campervan.
Blue Pools Track (Makarora) (1 hour return)
The Blue Pools Track is a short, easy walk that punches well above its weight. Located about an hour’s drive north of Wānaka near Makarora, the track winds through beech forest before opening out onto a swing bridge above the Makarora River. From there, you’ll get a clear view of the glacial pools — a deep, still section of water that’s so clear you can see right to the bottom. It’s a popular stop on the drive to the West Coast, so it’s best visited early in the day or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds. The car park is right off State Highway 6 and has enough space to accommodate campervans. This is a great stop if you’re short on time but still want to tick off a classic South Island sight.
Hawea River Track (3–4 hours return)
The Hāwea River Track is a gentle riverside walk that links Lake Hāwea with Albert Town, just outside Wānaka. It’s a well-formed gravel path shared with bikes and runners, making it ideal for a low-key day out. The scenery shifts between open farmland and quiet riverside stretches, with plenty of spots to pause along the way. Because it's not a loop, you’ll want to plan to return the same way — or just walk a section and turn back when it suits. There’s parking at both ends, with enough room for campervans, and plenty of space to pull over for a break or picnic. It's a quieter alternative to some of the more well-known tracks, and a good way to get a sense of the area beyond Wānaka’s town centre.
Tips for hiking in Wānaka
Before heading off on the trails, a bit of planning goes a long way. Weather in the Southern Lakes can shift quickly, tracks vary in difficulty, and reception can be patchy in some areas — so being prepared makes all the difference. Whether you're doing a short walk or a full-day hike, here are a few things to keep in mind.
Best time of year to hike in Wānaka
Wānaka offers walking options all year round, but each season brings something a little different. Here’s what to expect:
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Summer (Dec–Feb) – Long daylight hours and mostly dry tracks. Bring sun protection and set off early to avoid the midday heat.
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Autumn (Mar–May) – Cooler temps and beautiful colours on the hills, especially around April. Tracks are usually still in great condition.
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Winter (Jun–Aug) – Snow-dusted peaks and crisp, clear days. Some higher tracks may be closed or require caution due to icy conditions.
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Spring (Sep–Nov) – Melting snow and fresh greenery make it a great time for lower-altitude hikes, but trails can be muddy after rain.
What to pack
Even if you're only heading out for a short walk, it’s worth packing smart. Weather can change quickly around Wānaka, especially on the higher tracks — so being caught out without the right gear can turn a great walk into a tough one. If you’re travelling by campervan, you’ve already got the benefit of a mobile base — so make the most of it by keeping a well-stocked day pack ready to go.
Here are a few essentials to have on hand:
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Layers for changing conditions – A breathable base layer, a warm mid-layer, and a waterproof jacket will cover most scenarios. Even in summer, it can be cool at higher altitudes.
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Good footwear – Tracks range from gravel to muddy bush trails, so sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots make a big difference.
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Sun protection – The UV levels can be high, so pack sunblock, a wide-brim hat, and sunglasses.
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Plenty of water – At least 1–2 litres per person for shorter walks, more for longer hikes. Many tracks don’t have drinking water available.
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Snacks or lunch – Something easy to carry, like trail mix, sandwiches or fruit.
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Phone with offline maps – Reception can be patchy, so download track info in advance.
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Small first-aid kit – Blister plasters, pain relief, and a basic bandage can be surprisingly handy.
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Reusable rubbish bag – Pack it in, pack it out — even compostable items like apple cores should be taken with you.
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Trekking poles (optional) – Useful for longer climbs or uneven trails, especially after rain.
If you’re not sure what else to bring for your road trip, maui has a full guide to what to pack for your motorhome holiday — a handy starting point before you hit the road.
Leave no trace
Wānaka’s trails are as special as they are because they’ve been looked after — by locals, walkers, and the wider community. Be part of that effort by following the Leave No Trace principles. Stick to marked tracks, take all your rubbish with you, avoid feeding wildlife, and keep waterways clean. It’s the small things that make a big difference.
Where to stay in Wānaka
There are a couple of great holiday parks in and around Wānaka that are ideal for campervan travellers. Whether you’re after lake views or something a little more tucked away, these spots are set up with all the facilities you’ll need between hikes.
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Wānaka TOP 10 Holiday Park – Close to town with powered sites, clean amenities, and excellent views over the lake and mountains.
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Glendhu Bay Holiday Park – A peaceful lakefront setting just out of town, and a great base if you’re walking the Glendhu Bay Track or heading to Roys Peak.
Why a campervan is the best way to explore Wānaka walks
If you’re planning to walk, hike or just spend time outdoors, a campervan makes exploring Wānaka that much easier. You’re not tied to check-in times or rigid itineraries, and you can base yourself close to the tracks without needing to book a hotel down the road. Whether it’s an early start for Roys Peak or a quiet morning stroll along the lake, you’re already halfway there.
One of the biggest perks is the ability to reach trailheads that are off the main tourist routes. Many of the lesser-known tracks — like Timaru Creek or Raspberry Creek — are much easier to access with your own wheels. You’ve also got the bonus of having everything you need with you. After a big day out, you can head straight back to your camper, cook dinner, stretch out, and relax. No traffic, no rush.
Just be sure to lock in your spot at local campgrounds or holiday parks — the easiest way to do that is through the thl Roadtrip app, which lets you find and book sites as you go.
Wānaka is just one of many places in the South Island that’s made for walking. With your campervan, it’s easy to keep the hiking momentum going — whether you’re heading for the West Coast, Fiordland, or the mountain trails around Aoraki/Mount Cook. Wherever you're going next, the road is yours.
Ready to hit the trails?
If Wānaka’s walks are calling, there’s no better way to explore them than with a maui campervan. Go where you want, when you want — with the comfort and freedom to travel on your own schedule. Book your maui campervan online today and get ready discover some of the best walking tracks in Aotearoa, one stop at a time.