Lake Gault Track

Overview

The Lake Gault Track is a quiet, rewarding out-and-back that trades crowds for alpine drama. It’s about 8 km/5 mi return with roughly 200–300 m of steady climb, taking most hikers around 3–4 hours total. The payoff: big Southern Alps panoramas with the chance of glassy, postcard‑perfect reflections of Aoraki/Mount Cook and Mount Tasman on calm days.

Route

Start from the Lake Matheson carpark and follow the Lake Matheson track anti‑clockwise to the clearly signed turn‑off for Lake Gault. From here the track climbs consistently through ancient podocarp forest. Expect a few shallow stream crossings, a mid‑hill lookout seat over the river flats, and then easier going near the top before reaching the main Lake Gault lookout with a small shelter and two picnic tables. A composting toilet is located here as well.

Scenery and wildlife

You’ll walk through mossy, original podocarp rainforest with rimu, southern rātā, and kāmahi. On clear, still mornings the dark, tannin‑stained lake can mirror the high peaks—bring the camera. The surrounding forest is habitat for New Zealand’s rarest kiwi, the rowi; you’re unlikely to see one by day, but you may hear calls at night. Keep an eye out after rain for vivid blue mushrooms along the track.

Geology and history

Lake Gault occupies a hollow carved by ice during the last glacial advance; as the glacier retreated, meltwater filled the depression. The original track dates to the 1930s, built to service a hydroelectric scheme that powered a gold‑dredge at nearby Gillespies Beach. After closure in 2000, it was reopened in April 2019 following community and DOC work, with upgrades completed in 2020.

Best time to hike

Early morning on a clear, still day gives your best chance at “mirror” views before wind and cloud build over the Alps. After rain, expect muddy and slippery patches and muted vistas under low cloud—on those days the forest itself becomes the highlight.

Logistics and tips

Park at the Lake Matheson carpark (toilets on site) off Cook Flat Road near Fox Glacier/Weheka. There’s a composting toilet and covered picnic tables at the Lake Gault lookout. Bring drinking water, layers, sun protection, and insect repellent; sturdy hiking shoes or boots are recommended. Drones require DOC authorization on conservation land, and dogs are not permitted. If you want to extend the outing, combine this detour with the Lake Matheson loop; there’s also a café at the trailhead.