New Zealand is known for its stunning natural beauty, and the South Island is no exception. From snow-capped mountains to rugged coastlines, the South Island has it all. Hiking is a popular activity for both locals and visitors, with trails ranging from easy walks to multi-day treks. With so much breathtaking nature, hiking is a great way to see and embrace it all.
If you’re planning a trip to the South Island and want to experience the best hikes it has to offer, look no further. We’ve compiled a list of the top hikes in the region, each with its unique features and challenges. So grab your hiking boots and get ready for an adventure you’ll never forget.
Be sure to check out my sister post on the best hikes on New Zealand’s North Island!
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Angelus Hut Hike
The hike to Angelus Hut is a stunning two-day, 24 km (15 mi) hike through some of New Zealand’s most beautiful alpine scenery. It includes mountain peaks, ridgelines, waterfalls, alpine lakes, and the chance to spend a night at what is easily one of NZ’s most picturesque huts.
The Angelus Hut hike is located in Nelson Lakes National Park. Hikers can leave their cars at Mount Robert car park, which is also conveniently the trailhead for the trek.
The trail is quite diverse for a relatively short hike. It includes dense beech forest, magnificent views of Lake Rotoiti, and exposed rocky terrain with a couple of steep and challenging sections.
Angelus Hut is one of New Zealand’s most dramatic huts and is really a destination in itself. Perched on the edge of Lake Angelus in an alpine basin, the hut offers dramatic views from its deck. At the hut, hikers can soak in the tranquil and serene environment for which the hut is so famous.
Angelus Hut is a 28-bunk serviced hut with long drop toilets, a kitchen and a large fireplace. The hut is quite popular and advanced bookings are required, which can be made online on the Department of Conservation website.
It’s important to note that there is no water along this route, so make sure to leave with full water bottles. If you’re up for a longer adventure, this hike can be done as a side trip to the longer Travers Sabine Circut or the epic Te Araroa Trail.

Ben Lomond Hike
The Ben Lomond hike is a moderately difficult trail which offers breath-taking views of the surrounding
landscape over Queenstown.
The full trail is challenging due to its about 1438 metres of elevation gain. There is, however, an easier
way, and that is to take the gondola to Bob’s peak. This saves a steep hike up the Tiki Trail through a
gorgeous fir forest. Otherwise, the trail is an 11 km (6.8 miles) return trip and takes about 6 to 8 hours to
complete, and its starting point is the Gondola base station on Brecon Street. From the top of the
Gondola up to the saddle, the path is a mild but constant incline, which is relatively easy to cross. You’d
be constantly stopping as with elevation, the views Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables become more
and more compelling. Getting to the saddle is the easy bit and that’s where a bench facing incredible
views towards the surrounding mountains offers a well-deserved rest before the push to the top. The
way to the peak is yet another steep and rocky section, but the 360-degree view at the top is well worth
the trip. There is also an information panel that helps identify the surrounding peaks. Look out for the
kea birds lurking at the top, but keep in mind you should refrain from feeding them.
The Ben Lomond track is mostly exposed, and the weather, like in any alpine environment, can be
unpredictable. The track crosses mountain bike trails, and other tracks as well, so having a map of the
area is a must. The best time to visit is between Spring and Autumn, which is roughly October to May.
For the more adventurous hikers who want to take this hike up during winter, special equipment such as
an ice axe and crampons, might be necessary.
The Ben Lomond hike is an incredibly beautiful hike with its birds-eye view of the landscape. Even only
going up to the saddle is rewarding enough. There is plenty to see along the way and there’s always the

Hooker Valley Track
One of the best – and most accessible hikes – in New Zealand is the Hooker Valley Track in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is one of the most beautiful places in the country full of stunning views every way you look and a necessary stop on any road trip across New Zealand.
The Hooker Valley Track is an easy hike that takes you to the base of Mount Cook, the highest peak in New Zealand. The hike starts at the parking lot at the end of Hooker Valley Road in the heart of the park and takes you through meadows and across rivers on your way to Hooker Lake. It’s a decent-sized parking lot, though it can get crowded on a busy summer day.
The hike is about 6.7 miles (10.7 km) round trip and takes most people about 2-3 hours. It is mostly flat; thus anyone can do it with a minimal fitness level. When you reach Hooker Lake at the end of the trail, you’re greeted with one of the most incredible views in all of New Zealand. The snow-capped Mount Cook rises from the ground as little icebergs float in the lake before you.
One thing to note about Mount Cook is that the weather can change in an instant. Unless it’s a perfectly blue-sky day, it’s best to bring some rain gear on the hike. Even in rain, though, Mount Cook at Hooker Lake is a sight to behold!

Kepler Track
Kepler Track is a 60-kilometre/37-mile-long trek that can be completed in three to four days. The loop trail starts in Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland, and can be walked in either direction. It passes the shores of both Lake Te Anau and Lake Manapouri and enters the Kepler Mountains.
The Fiordland region is renowned for its beauty, and Kepler Track was purposefully constructed to sample its highlights. Hikers will enjoy steep glacier-carved mountain valleys, moss-covered forests, and cascading waterfalls.
The trail is well-marked and signposted. Most streams are bridged and boggy areas are covered with boardwalks. However, due to elevation in the mountainous sections, poor weather conditions can make completing the full loop more challenging. Some sections are steep and rough, and very steep sections have steps. Parts may be muddy and slippery.
Facilities like huts and campsites must be booked in advance. Huts have supplies like mattresses, electricity, toilets, and running water for users during the high season, and campsites have a water supply and toilets.
Kepler Track is best to hike from late October to late April when the weather tends to be better. From May to late October, facilities are greatly reduced and weather makes trail conditions more hazardous. It is recommended that only experienced and well-equipped hikers attempt the trail during this time. No dogs or bikes are allowed.

Lake Marian Track
The Lake Marian Track is an absolute gem located just off the road to Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park. It’s one of several great places to stop if you’re driving from Te Anau to Milford Sound.
This 3.1km (1.9 mile) track leads you to the stunning Lake Marian, an alpine lake nestled in a hanging valley formed by glaciers thousands of years ago. It takes around 3 hours to complete, but you’ll want to leave extra time to take photos, enjoy a packed lunch by the lakeside or even go for a swim if you’re brave enough!
It’s a pretty challenging hike that climbs steadily over rocky and uneven terrain so a decent level of fitness is needed, although it’s absolutely worth the effort. After passing a series of spectacular waterfalls, the track ascends through a beautiful rainforest of moss-covered trees on a rugged rocky, and sometimes muddy, path until you reach the breathtakingly beautiful Lake Marian, where on a calm day, you can see the Darren mountains reflecting on the surface.
The best part is that if you’re not up to doing the full track, you can turn around at the falls for an easy walk that will take less than 30 minutes.
There is a decent-sized parking lot with toilets at the start and near the end of the track. To avoid going off track, be sure to wear sturdy footwear and keep sight of the orange trail markers. Lake Marian is one of the most interesting and picturesque short hikes in Fiordland National Park, and it is worth making time for.

Milford Track
A lot of travelers know that the natural beauty of New Zealand’s South Island is otherworldly and among many scenic spots on the island. The Milford Sound is one of the most visited; most visit there on a day trip from Queenstown via road or flight, it is also possible to explore the landscape on foot. The Milford Track is one of the most popular of all. The trekking journey begins from Lake Te Anau and finishes at Milford Sound. The path was actually the footsteps of the early explorers as they trek through the forest and discover the spectacular Sound in New Zealand.
Milford Track is about 53 kilometers long. On the way, trekkers will be rewarded with a diverse range of views, including mountains, valleys, lakes, and more. The track takes about three to four days to complete, but the terrain is relatively tamed and suitable for many types of travelers who are physically capable of trekking.
There’s a shorter option for the hike. For one day, take a scenic walk from Te Anau and visit the Giant Gate Falls, a 30-meter-high spectacle. The site is also a great place to stop for a picnic and a dip in the water. Going on further, hikers are required to take part in a guided tour, or trek independently, staying in huts overnight. The track takes hikers through the highest point of Mackinnon Pass, Sutherland Falls, the tallest waterfall in New Zealand, and all the way to Milford Sound, the most visited Sound in New Zealand.

Mount Crichton Loop Track
For outdoor lovers visiting New Zealand’s South Island, Queenstown’s Mt. Crichton Loop Track is a lesser-known hike but well worth doing. While it doesn’t have the same views as Ben Lomond or the three-day Routeburn track, the scenery is still lovely. Mt. Crichton is also a relatively short hike of 5 miles (8 km) that can be comfortably completed within 2-3 hours, making it a good addition to a short Queenstown itinerary.
A favourite with locals, the Mt Crichton Loop Track is very accessible. This family-friendly hike welcomes everyone, from experienced trekkers to those just venturing into the world of hiking. It has a moderate climb of 370 meters (1,214 feet) – enough to feel like a decent workout without being overly strenuous.
The path is peppered with things to look at and is great for keeping kids engaged throughout the walk. The track winds through woodland and past streams, along with lovely views of mountain peaks and valleys. Historic remnants of the Twelve Mile Delta Gold Mining area dot the track and you’ll also pass by an old hut and a waterfall.
As for the logistics, the start of the trail is just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Queenstown, off the Queenstown-Glenorchy highway. Free parking is available close to the Twelve Mile Delta Campground, right at the trailhead. Remember to plan ahead though, as there are no restrooms along the trail. The good news? The track is open all year round, making it a reliable addition to your travel itinerary. Just remember to wear hiking boots in the winter months.

Roy’s Peak
Roys Peak is one of the most iconic hikes in New Zealand’s South Island, and whilst it’s not the easiest hike on the island, the views from the top are worth every uphill step.
The up-and-back route is 16km / 10 mi in length overall and takes between 5 and 6 hours to complete. However, that Instagram-famous viewpoint is about half an hour before the summit, so it’s possible to save a bit of time (or your legs!) and turn around after the viewpoint.
Starting by climbing through a farmer’s property in a series of switchbacks, the uphill is unfortunately a bit relentless, but the trail is wide and smooth and it’s easy to distract yourself with the cute sheep and the incredible lake views that continue to open up.
After about two and a half hours, you’ll reach the best panoramic photo spot, and also find a handy backcountry toilet. From here it’s another half an hour to reach the summit where you’ll be rewarded with 360 degrees over Lake Wānaka and Mt Aspiring National Park.
To return, follow the same path back down to the carpark. The trailhead is located about a 10min drive around the lake from central Wānaka, but I’d recommend getting there early, or wait until later in the afternoon. The large carpark does fill up on weekends and over the NZ summer holidays, and parking on the road is not permitted. For the best views, arrive a couple of hours before dawn to experience a legendary Roys Peak sunrise.

Good to know there are so many beautiful hikes that are on the shorter side. Angelus Hut looks like a good one. That viewpoint from Roy’s Peak is amazing, too. So many good options!
All of these hikes look incredible! I think I would need a whole month if I travel to New Zealand because I just keep seeing new amazing things to do!
What a great post to help me plan my New Zealand adventures. I appreciate that you included the options for both short and longer treks. While I love a good multi-day hike, sometimes a half-day hike works into the itinerary (and energy-level) better.
Lyn | http://www.ramblynjazz.com
I’m not a big hiker but these trails got me interested and maybe I should consider it more.
The views of forests, mountains, fjords and wildlife that each one affords in different quantities is spectacular.
I’m a big fan of open countryside views and majestic scenery so would have loved any one of these trails. Nice info and helpful tips here that will certainly be re-looked at whenever I get to New Zealand.
Nice to see a mixture of shorter and longer, more difficult and easier going hikes. Yet all with some incredible views that easily remind me how I need to return to New Zealand very soon. Especially since I’ve really gotten into hiking of late, so never took the opportunity on my last trip there. I’d love to plan the multi day hike and really get some good outdoor time, although I have to admit that cheating and taking a Gondola ride also appeals depending on my mood
New Zealand is so stunningly beautiful! Every time I see a pictures from this wonderful country, it moves higher and higher up our to-visit list. We really enjoy walking and all of these look fantastic. The Angelus Hut hike has gorgeous views and Mount Cook looks sublime! This is a great post – I particularly like that you have included hikes of varying length to give plenty of walking options.
I have a huge curiosity about New Zealand, and I confess that I also have a passion for it, although I have never been there.
It is one of the destinations I really want to visit and the fact that it is an easily explored country makes the desire to go even greater.
Although I am not a trekker by definition, I love walking in nature and the route that captivated me the most was the Hooker Valley Track.
As always, the post is very well written, the photos are appealing and, as a whole, it leads us to consider alternative destinations
When I thought that New Zealand was all about Hobbit Land and muscular blokes doing the Haka dance…but wait there’s more! This looks amazing Pamela and for someone like myself who is always hesitant to do long hikes, glad to find out that there are shorter one’s I can take specially in such a stunning setting #flyingbaguette
Jan – https://flyingbaguette.com/
This post is a great outline of some amazing hikes in New Zealand. It looks like a beautiful place to visit. Good to see the distances are meantioned too. Lake Marian track looks like a beautiful place and Roy’s Peak is awesome even though I never heard of it before!
New Zealand is such a bucketlist country, sadly I missed out on it during my sabbatical (covid hit). I would have loved to explore the South Island. Mount Cook & Milford Track were on my list. The nature in New Zealand is just so tranquil and unique like nowhere else. Thanks for compiling all the best hikes on the South Island, I’ll make sure to bookmark this as it will come in handy one day.
Carolin | Solo Travel Story