Blue Lakes Track

Overview

This is the bite‑size add‑on in Tasman Valley: a short out‑and‑back that passes the Blue Lakes and tops out at a moraine‑wall viewpoint. The standard walk is 0.93 miles total (1.5 km return) with about 282 ft/86 m of climbing, mostly on rock steps, and typically takes around 30 minutes. The signed Blue Lakes spur itself is a very brief, ~5‑minute return detour off the main path.

What You’ll See

Down at the lakeshore, expect small, calm tarns framed by moraine hills. Despite the name, the lakes are often green now—cut off from the glacier, algae has taken over. From the steps above, you get a nice look down onto the pools; continue a touch higher to the Tasman Lake/Tasman Glacier viewpoint for the big scene: Tasman Lake, distant icebergs, and the mountains at the head of the valley.

Route Notes

Start at Blue Lakes Car Park and follow the well‑formed gravel track with rock steps. Partway up, turn left at the clearly signed junction for the lakes; the shoreline can be muddy and the informal paths here are rougher and occasionally overgrown with spiky scrub. Rejoin the main track to continue the stepped climb (roughly 300 steps total to the viewpoint) or head back the way you came.

Geology in Plain Sight

You’re walking among terminal moraines left by the retreating Haupapa/Tasman Glacier—New Zealand’s longest (about 22–23 km) and still pulling back over 100 m per year. Tasman Lake only began forming in 1974 and has been expanding since, which is why the viewpoint delivers such an eye‑opening landscape of new water where ice used to be.

Best Time to Hike

All seasons work, but alpine weather flips fast—pack layers. This area is exposed to sun and wind; bring water and sun protection. For photography, check the lakes from the steps first; if the water is calm, drop to the shore for mirror‑like reflections. Summer is the move if you’re after a quick (legal) dip in the Blue Lakes.

Tips and Safety

Sturdy footwear is smart—the steps and shoreline can be slick when wet. Long pants help if you poke around the overgrown edges. Do not enter Tasman Lake: it’s near‑freezing (around 3°C), and walking on ice or climbing icebergs is dangerous. Drones aren’t allowed without a permit. Facilities at the car park include a shelter, toilets, and a water fountain.