Pros & cons
PROS
- Quick-hit alpine lake at roughly 1,800 m with superb basin views
- Famous film location that’s usually uncrowded compared to town trails
CONS
- Steep, winding access road with a per-vehicle fee
- No shade and frequent wind exposure at the lake
- Initial stretch through ski infrastructure is less scenic
Park at The Remarkables Ski Area carpark at the top of the access road; a public toilet is near the main ski building. Road access requires a per-vehicle fee (card only).
Alpine conditions change fast; there’s no shade and frequent wind. From May–November expect deep snow and icy sections—winter gear and experience required. The steep access road has sharp hairpins, limited guardrails, and can require chains in winter.
Overview
A bite-size alpine adventure with big payoff. This out-and-back climbs steadily to Lake Alta, a glacial cirque lake tucked beneath the Remarkables’ crags. It’s roughly 2.3 miles total with about 650 feet of gain—short, steady, and labeled easy-to-moderate. Expect wide-open views, wind exposure, and a finale at a stark, beautiful basin where cliffs drop into turquoise water. It’s usually quieter than Queenstown’s in-town walks and has a fun film-location twist.
Route
From the Remarkables Ski Area carpark, walk past the main buildings and follow the gravel/ski road under the chairlift to pick up the signed track. Poles and markers guide you onto a narrower path, with a bit of boulder-hopping near the basin. The first stretch through the ski infrastructure is nobody’s favorite, but it’s brief; once you round into the alpine basin, the scenery does the heavy lifting. Return the same way.
Best Time to Hike
November through April is the sweet spot when the route is generally snow-free. Even then, there’s no shade and it’s windier and colder than down in Queenstown—pack sun protection and layers. Early December can still find the lake rim iced over. May to November, snow typically covers the track; treat it like an alpine outing requiring winter gear and experience.
Logistics and Access
Reach the trailhead via the Remarkables Ski Field Access Road: about 13 km of steep, winding driving with sharp hairpins and limited guardrails. The surface starts paved and turns to gravel near the top. A per-vehicle fee (card only) is charged to use the road. Facilities are minimal: there’s a public toilet near the main ski building; otherwise, bring all water and snacks.
Tips and Safety
- Calm days reward you with mirror-like lake reflections; breezy days can feel raw and exposed.
- Stay on the formed track to protect delicate alpine plants in the basin.
- Dogs are allowed on leash; pack out all waste.
- In winter conditions, the route can be buried and overlaps a ski area—snowshoes, poles, very warm layers, and alpine savvy are essential. The access road may require chains when snow/ice is present.
- Confident scramblers can head a short way toward the north saddle for wider views; beyond the lake toward Single and Double Cone is only for experienced, equipped parties.
Worth it?
Yes—quick effort, big alpine feel, and a cinematic backdrop. Just know you’ll start in a ski area and pay for the drive before the magic kicks in.
Where it starts
-45.0526, 168.8136Near Lake Alta Track
All places →All trails →
0.1 mi awayThe Remarkables Ski AreaFreeride bowls and the Southern Hemisphere's only Burton StashFood · Restaurant
0.7 mi awayThe Remarkables Ski Area LookoutHigh alpine perch with big Lake Wakatipu and Queenstown viewsTrailhead · Parking
0.8 mi awayLake AltaShort climb to a mirror-still alpine lake in the RemarkablesParking · Restroom
3.9 mi awayJacks Point Golf CourseDramatic alpine golf with lake views and true risk‑reward shotsRestaurant · Food
5.9 mi awayJacks Point TrackLakeside singletrack with big Remarkables views and a breezy vibeModerate · 8.7 mi · 4 hr
5.9 mi awayLake Hayes WalkwayEasy lakeside loop with mirror views and autumn color pop.Easy · 4.9 mi · 2.5 hr
6.3 mi awayWye Creek TrackShort, steep climb to a Lake Wakatipu lookout via pipeline walkwayModerate · 2.5 mi · 2 hr
7.4 mi awayQueenstown Hill Time WalkShort, steady climb to Queenstown’s best skyline and lake viewsModerate · 3.1 mi · 2.5 hr
