15 BEST Day Hikes and Walks in Queenstown, New Zealand

If there’s one thing Queenstown does well (apart from adventure activities), it’s walks. Whether you’re after a flat lakeside stroll or a challenging summit that’ll leave your legs burning, there’s no shortage of incredible trails to choose from.

Having lived and worked in Queenstown for several years, I spent as much of my free time as I could out exploring the trails. There were very few weekends where I wasn’t heading out on another walk, whether that was tackling Ben Lomond, enjoying a peaceful stroll around Moke Lake, or checking out somewhere new.

After all that exploring, I’ve now done almost every walk there is to do around Queenstown, so narrowing down my favourites for this guide wasn’t easy.

Everyone’s idea of the perfect walk is different, so I’ve included a bit of everything. Whether you’re looking for an easy lakeside stroll, a hidden gem away from the crowds, or a challenging hike with incredible views, hopefully you’ll find a few walks that suit the kind of adventure you’re looking for.

So grab your hiking shoes, pack a few snacks, and let’s hit the trail.

The Best Walks in Queenstown

1. Bob’s Cove

Distance: 2 km return
Time: 45 minutes – 1 hour
Elevation: 70 m
Difficulty: Easy
Trail Type: Return
Best For: Lake views, an easy adventure, and a quick escape from Queenstown

If I had to choose my favourite short walk in Queenstown, Bob’s Cove would be right up there. It’s the perfect option when you want to get outside and enjoy incredible scenery without committing to a long or challenging hike.

Just a 15-minute drive from Queenstown, Bob’s Cove is an easy walk to add into your day. What I love most about this track is how quickly the views start. The bright blue water of Lake Wakatipu is visible throughout the walk, and on a clear day, the colour of the lake is hard to beat.

While there are plenty of amazing walks around Queenstown, I think Bob’s Cove gives you some of the best scenery for the amount of effort involved. You don’t need to spend hours hiking uphill to get those classic Queenstown views.

The track takes you through native bush before opening up along the shoreline, where you’ll pass a small beach area and the old jetty before making your way up to the lookout. From here, you’ll get beautiful views across Lake Wakatipu with the surrounding mountains creating the perfect backdrop.

I’ve done this walk a few times, and it’s always been a favourite of mine when I want something easy but still want that feeling of being surrounded by Queenstown’s scenery. It’s also a great spot to slow down, take a few photos, and enjoy the views without feeling like you need to rush.

2. Ben Lomond

Distance: 14 km return
Time: 6-8 hours
Elevation: 1,438 m
Difficulty: Hard
Trail Type: Return
Best For: Experienced hikers, big views, and ticking off one of Queenstown’s best day hikes

The Ben Lomond Track is the hardest walk on this list, but it is also one of the most rewarding. If you’re looking for a challenging Queenstown hike that delivers incredible views from start to finish, this is one that deserves a spot on your itinerary.

The track starts by winding through native beech forest before opening up onto tussock-covered slopes with incredible views over Queenstown. As you get higher, the walk becomes much tougher, with steep, rocky sections and very little shade or shelter.

The final push to the summit is where you’ll really feel the climb, but reaching the top makes every step worth it. From the summit, you’re rewarded with huge panoramic views across Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the surrounding mountains.

I did this hike in February, and even with great conditions, I still found it a challenging climb. I hike regularly, but the elevation gain is no joke, so don’t underestimate this one just because you’re used to doing shorter walks.

Take your time, bring plenty of water and snacks, and make sure you’re prepared for changing weather conditions.

If you’ve seen all the hype around Roys Peak in Wānaka, Ben Lomond is the Queenstown version. It has that same feeling of reaching a famous summit with incredible 360-degree views, without needing to leave town.

I’d highly recommend adding this one to your list if you’re up for the challenge.

3. Wye Creek Lookout

Distance: 3 km return
Time: 1-1.5 hours
Elevation: 300 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Type: Return
Best For: Incredible views, fewer crowds, and a rewarding short hike

If I had to rank my favourite walks around Queenstown, Wye Creek would come in second behind Bob’s Cove. It doesn’t get anywhere near as much attention as some of the more popular hikes, but I honestly think it deserves to.

A lot of people don’t realise that the lookout is only a short detour off the main Wye Creek Track, which continues all the way to the top of The Remarkables.

The good news is you don’t have to commit to a full-day hike to enjoy the best part. After a steep climb through native bush, the side track leads to a lookout with incredible views over Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains.

The climb definitely gets your heart rate up, but it’s short enough that most people with a reasonable level of fitness can manage it.

When you reach the helicopter platform at the top, you’ll be rewarded with one of my favourite viewpoints in Queenstown. Every time I’ve been up here, I’ve spent far longer than I planned just taking in the views.

One thing that many people don’t realise is there’s also a small waterfall tucked away near the lookout. It’s easy to miss if you don’t know it’s there, but it’s well worth taking a few extra minutes to check it out before heading back down.

This walk is my top Queenstown recommendation if you have already hiked most of the other tracks.

4. Queenstown Hill

Distance: 4.8 km return
Time: 2-3 hours
Elevation: 500 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Type: Return
Best For: Panoramic views, a half-day hike, and staying close to town

Queenstown Hill is proof you don’t have to venture far from town to find incredible views. Sitting just minutes from the centre of town, it’s one of the most accessible hikes in Queenstown and a great option if you don’t want to drive anywhere.

The track climbs steadily through pine forest before opening up to sweeping views over Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, Cecil Peak, and The Remarkables. Along the way, you’ll pass the famous Basket of Dreams sculpture, which is the perfect excuse to stop for a breather before continuing to the summit.

I think this is a great hike for anyone who wants a bit more of a challenge than the lakeside walks but isn’t quite ready to take on Ben Lomond. The climb is consistent, but it’s never overly technical, making it achievable for most people with a reasonable level of fitness.

I’ve done this walk a few times, and it’s one I’d happily recommend if you’re short on time but still want that classic Queenstown viewpoint. It’s a rewarding hike that gives you some of the best views in the area without needing to spend the entire day on the trail.

5. Tiki Trail

Distance: 2.1 km one way
Time: 1-1.5 hours uphill
Elevation: 450 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Type: One way
Best For: Budget travellers, great views, and reaching Skyline without paying for the gondola

The Tiki Trail is one of Queenstown’s most popular walks and a great alternative to catching the Skyline Gondola. If you’re happy to put in a bit of effort, you can save yourself the gondola fare and earn the views instead.

Starting at the base of the Skyline Gondola, the track climbs steadily through native forest as it zigzags its way up Bob’s Peak. It’s a consistent uphill climb that will definitely get your legs working, but the shaded track makes it a much more enjoyable hike, especially on a warm day.

Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with incredible views over Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu. From here, you can race down the luge, have fun on the ziplines or simply relax and take in the scenery.

Whenever I’m heading up to Skyline, this is the route I choose. I’d much rather spend an hour walking than pay for the gondola, and reaching the top always feels that little bit more rewarding when you’ve earned it.

6. Lake Alta

Distance: 2 km return
Time: 1-1.5 hours
Elevation: 280 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Type: Return
Best For: Alpine scenery, mountain lakes, and a shorter hike in The Remarkables

You don’t have to tackle a huge mountain hike to experience The Remarkables, and Lake Alta is proof of that.

It’s a relatively short walk that takes you high into the mountains, with some pretty incredible scenery along the way.

Starting from The Remarkables Ski Area car park, the track gradually climbs through alpine terrain as you make your way towards Lake Alta. While there are a few steeper sections, it’s never overly difficult, making it a great choice for anyone wanting to experience New Zealand’s alpine landscape without spending all day on the trail.

I’m not always in the mood for a massive hike, and that’s exactly why I love Lake Alta. It gives you that feeling of being right in the middle of the mountains without the hours of climbing that many alpine hikes require. For the amount of effort involved, I think the scenery is hard to beat.

When you reach the lake, you’ll find a peaceful alpine setting surrounded by rugged peaks. On a calm day, the reflections on the water make it an even more incredible place to stop for a break, take a few photos, or simply sit back and enjoy the views.

7. Moke Lake

Distance: 6 km loop
Time: 1.5-2 hours
Elevation: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy
Trail Type: Loop
Best For: A peaceful walk, fewer crowds, and a relaxing escape from Queenstown

Some of my favourite places around Queenstown are the quietest ones, and the Moke Lake Loop Track is one of them.

Just a short drive from town, this easy loop takes you around the edge of Moke Lake and offers a completely different side of the Queenstown landscape.

The track follows the shoreline of the lake, with views across the water towards the surrounding hills and mountains. While it doesn’t have the dramatic views of some of Queenstown’s bigger hikes, that’s not what makes Moke Lake special.

The beauty here comes from the peaceful atmosphere, the slower pace, and the feeling of being away from the crowds.

Moke Lake is also one of my favourite camping spots around Queenstown. I’ve spent a lot of time here, and there’s something special about waking up beside the lake with the mountains surrounding you.

8. Moke Lake Secret Lookout

Distance: Approx. 2 km return
Time: 45 minutes – 1 hour
Elevation: Approx. 150 m
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
Trail Type: Return
Best For: Hidden views, photography, and discovering a quieter side of Queenstown

If I could only share one hidden gem around Queenstown, this secret lookout would be right at the top of the list. While many people visit Moke Lake for the loop track and campground, most visitors don’t realise there’s an incredible viewpoint tucked away above the lake.

The short walk takes you away from the shoreline and up into the surrounding hills, where you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful view looking back over Moke Lake. From above, you get a completely different perspective of the area, with the lake surrounded by rolling hills and mountains.

I love this spot because it feels like you’ve discovered your own little corner of Queenstown. It’s usually much quieter than the more popular viewpoints, making it a great place to sit, take in the scenery, and enjoy the view without the crowds.

I think this is one of Queenstown’s best-kept secrets and a perfect addition if you’re already visiting Moke Lake. The walk itself is short, but the view you get at the top makes it feel much more rewarding than the effort required.

How to find the lookout:

The lookout isn’t signposted, so it’s easy to miss if you don’t know where to look. From the Moke Lake Loop Track, head towards the far side of the lake and look for the track that follows alongside the fence line. From there, you’ll make your way uphill towards the viewpoint.

9. Lake Hayes

Distance: 8 km loop
Time: 2-3 hours
Elevation: 50 m
Difficulty: Easy
Trail Type: Loop
Best For: A relaxed walk, mountain views, and an easy option for all fitness levels

Surrounded by mountain views and peaceful lakeside scenery, Lake Hayes is one of Queenstown’s best easy walks. It’s a favourite spot for many locals who come here for a morning walk, an afternoon stroll, or simply to enjoy some time outside without having to tackle a big hike.

The track loops all the way around the lake, taking you through wetlands, open fields, and peaceful lakeside paths. On a calm day, you’ll get beautiful reflections of The Remarkables across the water, and I especially love this walk when the mountains are covered in snow in the distance. It creates such a classic Queenstown scene.

While Lake Hayes doesn’t have the steep climbs or dramatic viewpoints of some of the other walks on this list, that’s not what makes it special. It’s the peaceful atmosphere, the easy-going track, and the chance to slow down and enjoy the scenery that keeps locals coming back.

Combine this with a visit to Arrowtown and you have an awesome little day out.

10. Jacks Point walk

Distance: 8 km return
Time: 2-3 hours
Elevation: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
Trail Type: Return
Best For: Lake views, a peaceful walk, and exploring a quieter side of Queenstown

The Jacks Point to Kelvin Heights Walk is a beautiful lakeside track that offers something a little different from many of the hill walks around Queenstown. Instead of climbing for views, this walk lets you slow down and enjoy the scenery along the edge of Lake Wakatipu.

Starting near the Jacks Point Golf Course, the track follows the shoreline towards Kelvin Heights, with beautiful views across the lake towards The Remarkables the entire way. The terrain is mostly easy, making it a great option for families, casual walkers, or anyone looking for a longer but relaxed adventure.

What I love most about this walk is how peaceful it feels. It’s also one of my favourite spots to watch the sunset, with the light hitting The Remarkables across the lake and the mountains changing colour as the sun goes down.

As you get closer to Kelvin Heights, you’ll find little side tracks leading closer to the lake and away from the main path. These quieter spots are my favourite part of the walk, and sometimes I’ll just head out from Kelvin Heights and explore these areas rather than doing the full track.

The side tracks can be easy to miss, so keep an eye out as you walk. They aren’t always obvious, but taking the time to explore them is well worth it.

11. Sunshine Bay

Distance: 3.2 km return
Time: 1-1.5 hours
Elevation: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy
Trail Type: Return
Best For: A peaceful lakeside walk, swimming spots, and an easy adventure close to Queenstown

The Sunshine Bay Track is a beautiful lakeside walk just a short distance from Queenstown. It’s an easy option when you want to get outside, enjoy some fresh air, and take in the views without committing to a big hike.

The track follows the edge of Lake Wakatipu, with a mix of forest and open sections along the way. There are a few gentle inclines, but overall it’s a relaxed walk that most people can enjoy. The views across the lake and towards the surrounding mountains make it a great spot to slow down and take your time.

When I lived nearby, this was a walk I did often. It became one of my favourite spots on a sunny summer day, especially because you can finish your walk with a swim in Lake Wakatipu. There’s nothing better than cooling off in the lake after a stroll while taking in the views around you.

12. Frankton Arm

Distance: 7 km return
Time: 1.5-2 hours
Elevation: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy
Trail Type: Return
Best For: A relaxed lakeside walk, morning strolls, and an easy option close to Queenstown

The Frankton Arm Walk is one of my favourite easy walks around Queenstown. Starting from Frankton Marina, the track follows the edge of Lake Wakatipu towards Queenstown, offering beautiful views across the water to the surrounding mountains.

One of the best things about this walk is that you can start it from either end. If you’re staying in Queenstown, you can walk from town along the lakefront towards Frankton Marina and then return the same way, or start at the marina and make your way towards Queenstown. It’s an easy walk to fit into your day, no matter where you’re staying.

While it’s close to town, this walk has a much slower pace and is a great way to enjoy the scenery without needing to tackle a big climb. The mostly flat track makes it a great option for families, casual walkers, or anyone who wants to get outside and enjoy Queenstown’s views without the effort of a steep hike.

One of my favourite ways to do this walk is in the morning, when the lake is often calm and the mountains reflect beautifully across the water. I love finishing it off with a coffee at The Boat Shed afterwards, it’s the perfect little Queenstown routine.

If you’re not a big hiker but still want to experience the beauty Queenstown is known for, this is a walk I’d definitely recommend.

13. Queenstown Gardens

Distance: 2 km loop
Time: 30 minutes
Elevation: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy
Trail Type: Loop
Best For: A relaxing stroll, a picnic spot, and an easy walk close to town

Right in the heart of Queenstown, the Gardens are the perfect place for a relaxing stroll. Sitting right on the edge of Lake Wakatipu, it’s a beautiful place to slow down and enjoy the scenery at an easy pace.

The flat loop track takes you through the gardens, past a mix of native and exotic trees, colourful gardens, and peaceful spots to stop and relax. The walk itself is short, but there are plenty of places where you’ll want to pause and take in the views across the lake towards the surrounding mountains.

This is one of those places I’d take friends or family visiting Queenstown who aren’t looking for a big hike but still want to experience the scenery the area is famous for. It’s also a great spot to bring a picnic, enjoy a coffee nearby, or simply wander around after exploring town.

While it may not have the big mountain views of some of the other walks on this list, I love that you can step away from the busy streets of Queenstown and find a peaceful spot right in the middle of town.

Local’s tip:

Grab some Ferg Burger, wander down to The Gardens and enjoy the view while eating the most famous food in town.

14. Mt Crichton Loop Track

Distance: 8 km loop
Time: 2-3 hours
Elevation: 300 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Type: Loop
Best For: History, a quieter hike, and exploring a different side of Queenstown

The Mt Crichton Loop Track is a walk that offers something a little different from many of the other hikes around Queenstown. Instead of chasing a summit, this track takes you through native bush, along peaceful forest trails, and past reminders of the area’s gold mining history.

The loop starts near Lake Wakatipu and winds through a variety of landscapes, with a mix of easy sections and a few steeper climbs along the way. While it doesn’t have the huge mountain views of some of Queenstown’s more famous hikes, it has a different kind of charm that makes it worth exploring.

One of my favourite parts of this walk is the history you discover along the way. You’ll pass old mining relics, including the remains of gold mining structures, which give you a glimpse into what the area was like during Queenstown’s gold rush days.

I think this is a great option if you’ve already done some of the more popular Queenstown walks and want to experience something a little different. It’s a chance to slow down, explore the forest, and learn a bit more about the history that helped shape the region.

15. Glenorchy Lagoon

Distance: 5 km loop
Time: 1-1.5 hours
Elevation: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy
Trail Type: Loop
Best For: Incredible mountain views, sunrise, and an easy walk for everyone

Glenorchy is a bit of a drive from Queenstown, but I couldn’t leave the Glenorchy Lagoon Walk off this list. If you have a few days in Queenstown, I think the drive out here is well worth it, especially if you want to experience some of the incredible scenery beyond town.

This easy loop takes you through the Glenorchy wetlands along a simple boardwalk, making it almost impossible to get lost. There’s no big climb, no challenging sections, and no need to be an experienced hiker, just plenty of time to slow down and enjoy the views.

The best part of this walk is the scenery. The lagoon sits surrounded by some of the most impressive mountain landscapes in the region, with reflections across the water on a calm day creating an incredible view.

If you can, I’d try to visit around sunrise when the water is often still and the mountains glow in the early morning light.

I love taking my time on this walk and stopping at the benches along the way to simply sit and enjoy the surroundings.

Wrap up – Best Walks and Day Hikes in Queenstown

No matter how much time you have in Queenstown, there’s a walk to suit every kind of adventure. From challenging summit hikes like Ben Lomond to peaceful lakeside strolls around Lake Hayes and hidden gems like the Moke Lake Secret Lookout, there’s no shortage of incredible places to explore.

My biggest piece of advice? Don’t just stick to the famous tracks. Some of my favourite spots around Queenstown are the quieter ones that most visitors drive straight past.

Once you’ve ticked a few of these walks off your list, keep the adventure going by checking out my guide to the best things to do in Queenstown, where I share even more of my favourite activities, viewpoints, and hidden gems to help you make the most of your trip.