This South Island dreamland of pristine forests, soaring mountains, meandering rivers and spectacular glaciers is a paradise for outdoor adventures.
Mount Aspiring National Park is a breathtaking tribute to nature blessed with extraordinary landscapes, an array of colorful flora and myriad wildlife. Appreciate the majesty while dabbling in climbing, hiking, jet boating and skiing activities. Mount Aspiring National Park covers over 1,373 square miles (3,555 square kilometers) and forms part of the Te Wahipounamu UNESCO World Heritage site. Its spellbinding beauty was used as a filming location for the Lord of the Rings movies.
The park straddles the southernmost section of New Zealand’s Southern Alps and is dominated by the 9,951-feet (3,033-meter) tall Mount Aspiring. It shelters three of the region’s biggest glaciers, over 50 bird species and more than 400 varieties of butterflies.
Pull on a pair of walking boots or strap on a set of crampons and explore the park’s trails. Hike deep down into lush river valleys, over mountain passes, around alpine lakes and through thick beech forests. Enjoy uninterrupted views from lookouts and swing bridges. Follow easy trails to the crystalline Blue Pools, Roaring Billy waterfall and Thunder Creek Falls. Tackle demanding routes such as the Cascade Saddle, Rob Roy Glacier trail and multiday Gillespie Pass Circuit.
Journey into the heart of the wilderness on an exciting jet-boat ride. Cruise across glacial water at breakneck speeds on the Dart, Matukituki and Wilkin rivers. Get a bird’s-eye view on a scenic flight high above the glaciers and mountain peaks. Try rock climbing, mountaineering and heli-skiing. Stand knee-deep in clean water or cast a line off a boat and fish for salmon and trout.
The park sits at the southern edge of the South Island’s West Coast Region. It’s about an hour’s drive from the town of Wanaka and 2 hours from Queenstown, New Zealand’s extreme sport’s capital. Trails lead into the park’s southern area from the village of Glenorchy, which is north of Queenstown.
Mount Aspiring National Park is accessible year-round. Summertime is arguably the best period to visit, although be prepared for changeable weather conditions at any time. Pick up park maps and information brochures at visitor centers in Haast, Makarora, Queenstown and Wanaka.
