Exploring the Rocky Mountain Track
Located near Wānaka, the Rocky Mountain Track provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the Matukituki Valley. This loop trail is a great choice if you're looking for a rewarding hike with panoramic vistas. The well-maintained path to a cliff-edge high point above Diamond Lake is a less strenuous option, while the more challenging route to the summit involves an additional 300-metre climb on a tramping track.
Trail Details and Views
From the Diamond Lake car park, follow the access road and track to Diamond Lake. Staying on the west side of the lake, you will find the start of the Rocky Mountain Track.
Head up the steps, a climb of 100 metres, on a well-maintained path to a cliff-edge high point above Diamond Lake. Shortly after reaching this point, the trail splits, with a choice of left or right on a figure eight twin loop over the mountain's top. Opting for the right side provides access to an additional easterly viewpoint over Lake Wānaka, with a modest climb on the Lake Wānaka Lookout Track.
Regardless of your choice, expect some short, rough sections and more steps along the way, with a total additional climb of 300 metres. Once you reach the flattish summit, you'll find easy, rolling grass and mountain tussock lands. The peak stands at 775 metres, with 360-degree views of the region.
The loop is 7 km and takes from 2.5 to 3 hours to complete.
How to Get There
To reach the start of the Diamond Lake and Rocky Mountain Walks from Wānaka, take Mount Aspiring Road around the west side of the lake for approximately 12 kilometres until you reach the car park at the trailhead. The drive takes 10 minutes.
Nearby, you can explore the Motatapu Gorge, Motatapu River Track, Glendhu Bay Track, West Wānaka and Roys Peak Track.
