Summary
The Roys Peak hike is one of the most well-known day hikes on the South Island of New Zealand.
This challenging trail on the outskirts of Mount Aspiring National Park rewards hikers with breathtaking views of Lake Wanaka and the beautiful surrounding landscape.
If you’re passing through the Wanaka area and seeking an adventurous challenge, do not miss this hike! This travel guide explains how to get there and everything you need to know before setting out!
Quick Facts
- Distance: 16 kilometers (10 mi) return
- Elevation Gain: 1,250 meters (4,100 ft)
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Duration: 5-6 hrs
Where Is Roys Peak?
The Roys Peak trail is located on the South Island of New Zealand, just outside the town of Wanaka.
The trailhead is a 70-minute drive from Queenstown or merely 10 minutes from Wanaka.
What To Expect
The Roys Peak hike is a strenuous out-and-back trail, where 90% of your time is spent climbing uphill or descending downhill. It’s a real challenge for your calves, knees, and ankles! You’ve been warned!
Is the effort worth it? Many would say yes, but for us, once was sufficient. As you ascend the switchbacks, the initial glimpses will include Lake Wanaka and the extensive farmlands behind you, with the scenic lake and majestic mountains becoming increasingly impressive as you trek.
Along the route, you might encounter the occasional sheep and many fellow hikers to keep you company.
Ultimately, you will emerge onto a long flat ridge that offers stunning panoramic views of Lake Wanaka, Glendhu Bay, and the mountain ranges flanking either side.
Despite our previous exhaustion during the hike, this breathtaking view truly amazed us.
With a good zoom lens, you can capture remarkable photographs here.
Like many hikers, we opted to pause at the lookout point instead of continuing to the summit. The reason being, reaching the peak requires an additional steep climb with over 1,000 feet (300 m) of extra elevation gain.
Moreover, the general consensus is that this viewpoint provides the best vistas anyway!
Entrance Fees
There is no entrance fee, although a voluntary donation of $2 NZD is requested at the start of the hike.
Restrictions
- The track is closed for lambing from 1 October – 10 November.
- During winter months, you may need alpine equipment such as an ice axe and crampons.
- Drones are not permitted.
What To Bring
- Water: Bring at least 2L per person or more; there’s no drinking water along the trail.
- Snacks: Junk food can make a long hike feel much easier!
- Sunscreen: The hike is exposed, and sunburn can be severe, so packing sunscreen is essential!
- Footwear: Sturdy hiking shoes are a must, as you will be navigating through various terrains, including slippery gravel and steep inclines.
- Camera: A camera with zoom capabilities will allow you to take amazing photos at the viewpoint.
Where To Stay – Camping
If you require camping facilities in the Wanaka area, there are several holiday parks available:
- Albert Town Campground
- Lake Outlet Holiday Park
- Mount Aspiring Holiday Park
- Wanaka Lakeview Holiday Park
- Wanaka TOP 10 Holiday Park
More information can be found in the CamperMate NZ app.
Wanaka also offers hotel options, but it is a tourist-focused lakeside town, so accommodations can be somewhat pricey.
Unfortunately, there are no free campgrounds in the immediate Wanaka area unless you are willing to drive 35 minutes south to Lake Dunstan.
