[2025 Glendhu Bay Attraction] Travel Guide for Roys Peak Lookout (Updated Apr)

Roys Peak Track is one of the most iconic hiking trails on New Zealand's South Island, located near Wanaka. It is renowned for its stunning lake and mountain views. This trail is particularly popular among photographers and hikers, offering breathtaking views of Lake Wanaka and the distant Southern Alps. Trail Information Length: Approximately 16 km (round trip) Walking Time: 5-7 hours (3-4 hours up, 2-3 hours down) Elevation: 1,578 meters Difficulty: Moderate to difficult (mainly steep uphill sections) - a true test of willpower Open Season: October 1 to May 14 (closed during breeding season, please check official announcements) Hiking Highlights 1. Spectacular Panoramas: From the summit, you can overlook Lake Wanaka, the Matukituki Valley, and Mount Aspiring National Park, with breathtaking scenery. 2. Iconic Photo Spot: The viewpoint about 30 minutes from the summit is the best place to capture classic views of Lake Wanaka. 3. Challenging Slopes: The trail is mostly steep uphill, challenging your stamina, but the unfolding scenery along the way makes it worthwhile. Recommended Gear and Precautions Hiking Boots: The trail is mostly dirt and gravel, so sturdy hiking boots are recommended. Sun Protection: There is little shade along the trail, so bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses. Water and Food: There are no supply points along the trail, so bring at least 2-3 liters of water and some snacks. Weather Changes: New Zealand's weather is unpredictable, so bring a windproof and waterproof jacket. Hiking Time Planning: The best time to start is early morning to avoid the intense midday sun and to ensure you descend before sunset. Respect the Environment: Follow the 'Leave No Trace' principles, take all your trash with you, and protect the natural environment. How to Get There? It takes about 10 minutes by car from downtown Wanaka to reach the Roys Peak Car Park on Mount Aspiring Road. Parking is limited, so it's advisable to arrive early during peak season. Who is it Suitable For? Those with good physical fitness and hiking experience Those who enjoy challenging steep hikes Travelers who love photography and stunning landscapes This trail is one of New Zealand's classic hiking routes. If you're planning a trip to Wanaka, Roys Peak is definitely a must-visit spot that will challenge you to the core!

Roy’s Peak is the most representative hiking spot in Wanaka, South Island, New Zealand. It is famous for its magnificent mountain and lake scenery, especially the "Internet celebrity shooting spot" widely known on Instagram. The following is a detailed guide to help you complete this hiking trip smoothly. Basic information • Location: About 6 kilometers from the center of Wanaka town. • Hiking distance: 16 kilometers round trip (8 kilometers one way). • Altitude: 1578 meters (climbing about 1300 meters). • Duration: About 5-7 hours round trip, depending on personal physical strength and shooting time. • Difficulty: Medium to high, mainly continuous climbing, no technical difficulties, but requires good physical strength. • Opening hours: October 1 to May 10 every year (closed in winter to protect the sheep). Transportation and arrival 1. Self-driving: Starting from Wanaka Town, drive along Mount Aspiring Road to Roy’s Peak Track Carpark, which is about a 10-minute drive. The parking lot is small, so you need to arrive early to grab a parking space during peak season. 2. Travelers without a car: You can choose to rent a bicycle or book a local pick-up service. Detailed explanation of the hiking route 1. From the starting point to the middle section: It is a steep slope at the beginning, which requires patience and a sense of rhythm. You can enjoy the initial view of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains on the way. This is basically a sheep activity area, and you may encounter sheep dung. 2. From the middle section to the popular shooting point: When you reach about 3/4, you will see a fence and a viewing point, which is a famous shooting location. It is recommended to queue up patiently for photos (it may take more than 30 minutes to queue up during peak season). 3. From the shooting point to the summit: If your physical strength allows, continue to climb to the summit. Although there are not so many tourists in the higher part, the scenery is more spectacular, overlooking the entire Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps. Equipment recommendations 1. Hiking equipment: • Comfortable hiking shoes (anti-slip, waterproof). • Quick-drying clothes and multiple layers of clothing (it may be colder at the top of the mountain). • Sun protection products: hats, sunscreen, sunglasses. • Hiking poles (to reduce pressure on the knees). 2. Supplies: • Bring at least 2 liters of water (no water supply point). • Energy snacks (such as chocolate, nuts). 3. Others: • Camera or mobile phone (make sure it is fully charged to take photos of Internet celebrities). • Garbage bags (protect the environment and do not leave garbage). Notes 1. Weather: The weather is changeable, please check the weather forecast in advance to avoid strong winds or rainy days. If the weather is too bad, the scenery may be affected. 2. Physical strength assessment: If you are physically weak, it is recommended to climb slowly and do not force yourself to reach the top. The viewing point is already beautiful. 3. Environmental protection: Please do not disturb the sheep or damage the vegetation, and take all the garbage back. Best time to shoot • Sunrise: The most ideal time, the sun shines on the top of the mountain, the colors are particularly beautiful, but you need to start hiking in the early morning. • Weekday morning: Avoid the crowds and reduce the waiting time for shooting. • Golden hour: From early morning to noon, when the weather is clear, the light and visibility are best.

#outdooradventure Hiking up Roy's Peak was the most incredible hike I've ever experienced. The views were absolutely stunning, making every step worthwhile. Despite the route being a "simple" gravel road, the eight kilometers of continuous ascent were a true test of endurance, leaving my quads and glutes burning and my lungs on fire. However, reaching the summit and taking in the breathtaking panorama made all the effort worth it. The sense of accomplishment and the sheer beauty of the landscape were simply amazing. This hike is a must-do for anyone seeking a challenging yet rewarding adventure. Highly recommend!

#newzealandtrip I recently completed one of New Zealand's most iconic hikes—Roys Peak, and it was an experience I won't forget. The trail starts from the Roys Peak Track car park near Lake Wanaka, and immediately you’re greeted with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lake. The hike itself is challenging, with a steep ascent over a 5 to 6-hour journey, but the reward at the top is absolutely worth it. The track zigzags its way up the mountain, offering breathtaking vistas of Lake Wanaka, Mount Aspiring, and the Southern Alps. As I made my way to the summit, the anticipation built, knowing the panoramic views would be unparalleled. At the top, I was surrounded by a 360-degree view of snow-capped peaks, valleys, and lakes that looked like something out of a dream.

A man is not as old as long as he is seeking something. A man is not old until regrets take the place of dreams. As long as a person has something to pursue, he never gets old. A person is old until regrets replace dreams. - Wanaka Roys Peak Track-New Zealand The total length is 16 kilometers, and the elevation is 1,580 meters. It is estimated to take 5-6 hours to complete the climb You can overlook the entire Wanaka Lake And the snow-capped mountains in the distance This is one of the ten most famous hiking trails in New Zealand. It is said to be the most difficult one to climb. The slope is very steep because the entire mountain area is pasture. You can often go hiking with sheep🐑 It is closed in October and November every year. Although it is summer, the cold wind on the mountain still makes people shiver Onion-style dressing is the most suitable When the weather is good, be sure to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen There is no cover at all There is a toilet at the foot of the mountain and at the top of the mountain. During the process, I almost lost my strength on my legs several times. The pain can only be overcome with willpower I wanted to reach the top and see the most comprehensive view. Unconsciously, I am slowly approaching my goal We met many climbers on the way. Foreigners' long legs make their every step look bold and majestic. Walking on the ridge, focusing on every inch of land under your feet Shortcuts are always risky. The safest way is always roundabout. - Photo by Dona Lin Roys Peak, Wanaka, New Zealand