Day 4: Explore the Breathtaking Scenery of Mount Cook National Park

Mount Cook National Park is just an hour’s drive from Lake Tekapo. Ah! Ah! Ah! Ah!! This national park, encircled by snow-capped peaks, exudes an awe-inspiring and breathtaking beauty!! After a 20-minute hike, the sight of the glacier was simply mesmerizing!!!

Nature in New Zealand seems to have poured 90% of its divine artistry into crafting Mount Cook National Park. The mountains rise majestically, piercing the clouds, and the glaciers shimmer with a stunning turquoise hue. Gazing at the waterfalls cascading from melting snow in the distance, wow~ I can’t find any words other than “Wow~~” and “Amazing~” to capture my feelings at that moment.

Friends, if you ever visit New Zealand, hiking in Mount Cook National Park is an absolute must. Travel tips:
1. The journey from Lake Tekapo to Mount Cook National Park spans 104 kilometers, taking approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Be sure to refuel your RV, as you’ll need enough gas for the next leg to Queenstown.

2. Inside Mount Cook National Park, there’s a visitor center where staff can recommend trails based on your hiking experience. You can also purchase energy bars and various hiking gear here.
3. Photos 1 and 5 showcase two beginner-friendly hiking routes recommended by the center. The one on the far right is an exceptional glacier hiking route, offering a truly unforgettable experience!

The entire hike, including time for photos and admiring the views, takes about 2 hours. The scenery is so captivating that it will linger in your thoughts day and night. I deeply regret not spending more time in Mount Cook National Park.
4. Due to strong winds, the suspension bridge trail and the uphill trails were closed, which was a bit disappointing.

Always check for any changes in the schedule.
5. It’s crucial to wear waterproof jackets and shoes with good grip. If you want to touch the glacier water and ice, you need to carefully descend a rocky path to reach the glacier riverbank. Be cautious! It was my first time touching such a large piece of ice, as shown in Photo 13!

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6. We stayed at The Hermitage Hotel at the foot of the mountain, booked last minute… The price was a bit high, but everyone agreed that since we were already there, we should savor the view. The buffet restaurant at the Hermitage Hotel offers a panoramic view of the Mount Cook range that is simply unparalleled.

It’s both awe-inspiring and moving, isn’t it? If possible, consider staying here or at least stopping by for a coffee and some relaxation.
7. The weather in the mountains can change rapidly, so make sure to adjust your clothing accordingly.