It’s easy to see why Roys Peak is known as New Zealand’s most Instagrammed hike. Located around 90 minutes from Queenstown, this 16km full-day hike rewards with panoramic views of the Southern Alps and Lake Wānaka, and the chance to get that shot from Roys Peak viewpoint.

Jump to Section

Quick Overview

Roys Peak Track is a 16km return hike near Wānaka in the Otago region of the South Island of New Zealand. It takes around six hours to complete and has an elevation gain of 1,228m.

Roys Peak Facts

Distance: 16km return
Duration: 5-7 hours
Elevation gain: 1,228m
Nearest town: Wānaka

About Roys Peak Track

Just outside Wānaka, Roys Peak is the number one hike on many South Island visitors’ must-do lists, and is in many Instagram ‘saved’ folders, for a reason.

At 1578m, Mount Roy towers over Lake Wānaka and is surrounded by the snow-capped Southern Alps including Tititea/Mount Aspiring, the country’s highest peak outside the Aoraki/Mount Cook region.

Hiking the track is popular for sunrise. The views and photo ops are extra epic when a golden glow backlights the surrounding mountain peaks.

 

Sunrise AND snowing? Instagram might combust from the beauty

 

Roys Peak Track zigzags steeply up the side of Mount Roy, delivering epic views from start to summit, including at the iconic viewpoint. The hike takes around six hours to complete depending on your fitness levels.

Please note! Roys Peak Track is closed each year for lambing from the 1st of October to 10th of November. Nearby Isthmus Peak Track is a great alternative hike during this time.

How to Get to Roys Peak Track

The Roys Peak Track trailhead is ten minutes drive or 6km from central Wānaka. If you’re travelling from Queenstown, the drive takes about 90 minutes.

The trailhead car park can get crowded, especially during peak times, so plan to arrive early or consider riding a bike along the Waterfall Creek Track to the start of the track.

 

Time to get excited

Where to Stay Near Roys Peak

There’s no accommodation on Roys Peak, and overnight camping isn’t allowed at the trailhead car park. It’s worth planning to spend a few days in the small mountain town of Wānaka. Options for accommodation include cosy motels, glamping tents, well-equipped campgrounds, or lively backpackers.

Otherwise, nearby Queenstown has a wide range of places to stay for all budgets and travel styles.

Skill Level for Roys Peak Track

Intermediate

A good level of fitness is required as the track is relentlessly steep. You’ll need to be prepared for constant elevation with no shade and no water available.

Ensure you have extra warm and windproof clothing as temperatures can drop quickly on the exposed track, even in summer

During winter, the track is considered advanced due to snow and ice.

Read more: Gear Up for Winter: What You ACTUALLY Need to Tackle the Cold

Essential Gear for Roys Peak Track

  • Water bottle
  • Sturdy hiking shoes
  • Sunscreen, hat, and sunnies
  • Extra warm and windproof layers
  • Camera
  • First aid kit
  • Plenty of snacks
  • Head torch, if hiking the track for sunrise or sunset

Read more: Remember to leave no trace

 

Also take a moment to let it all sink in

What It’s Like to Hike Roys Peak Track

The hike starts at the Roys Peak Track car park on Mount Aspiring Road just outside Wānaka. Chances are, if you’re visiting in peak season and starting early to catch the sunrise, you’ll be joined by a steady stream of hikers gearing up for the climb in the dark.

The track is easy to follow and isn’t technically difficult, even with low light, as the gravel track is fairly wide. Be sure to bring a head torch if you’re hiking for sunrise or sunset.

Steady Switchbacks and Stunning Views

The track climbs uphill relentlessly. It’s fully exposed, with no shade. Take it slow and stop for snacks, drinks, and breaks often if you need to.

Large sections of the track cross through on private farmland, so it’s important to show respect and stay on the path to ensure the hike remains open to everyone.

 

Spotted: rare section of flat track

 

Don’t freak out if you see pairs of glowing red eyes along the way when hiking in the dark. Sheep graze the golden tussocks alongside the track and can give unsuspecting hikers (like me) quite the fright!

Truthfully, the track becomes a bit of a slog, and the false summits around every corner are slightly demoralising, but the higher you climb, the better the views. You’ll start to rise above Lake Wānaka and the peaks of the Southern Alps will gradually feel like they’re surrounding you.

Reaching The Photo Spot

After what probably feels like forever (2-4 hours of climbing), you’ll reach the famous Roys Peak Lookout or The Photo Spot.

The Photo Spot is as spectacular in person as it looks online – you’ll feel like you’re standing on the edge of the world surrounded by mountains.

 

We’re all out here trying to get the shot

 

You’ll also likely be surrounded by a queue of selfie-stick-wielding hikers waiting their turn to snap that shot. That’s the reality of hiking New Zealand’s most famous walk.

But what many don’t know is the track continues past The Photo Spot to the lesser-visited, and even more spectacular, summit of Mount Roy.

Please note! You must have a permit to fly a drone on public conservation land, so leave the drone at home unless you’re authorised by the New Zealand Department of Conservation.

 

Summiting Roys Peak

While many snap their pic at the lookout and head back down, it’s worth pushing on for a further 1.5km to reach the summit of Mount Roy at 1,578m.

Your legs might be sore but the crowds thin out on this final stretch of track. The 360-degree views of the snow-capped mountain ranges and Lake Wānaka are well worth the effort, I promise.

It’s often quite windy at the summit, so you’ll probably want to pop on those extra layers while you stop to take in the views.

 

😍😍😍

Prepare (Your Knees) for the Descent

Take it easy on the way down, especially if it’s rained recently as the track can get slippery. Plus the consistent downhill can take a toll on the ol’ knees.

If conditions are right you might even spot locals taking the easy way down and flying their paragliders off the peak (oh, how I wished I could be them in that moment!).

Reward yourself and your aching muscles with an icy dip in Lake Wānaka once you’ve descended.

Roys Peak Track in Winter

In winter the track is considered advanced as mountaineering skills and equipment are essential for safety.

Ensure you’re properly prepared for the track to be icy and be willing to turn back if weather conditions change.

 

Imagine hiking these steep slopes when they’re snowy… so make sure you’re prepared in winter

Tips For Hiking Roys Peak

  • There’s no shade or water along the track, so bring sun protection and plenty of water Start early to avoid tackling the exposed climb in the hottest part of the day
  • Always check the track’s status with the Department of Conservation before heading out
  • If the car park is full, or you’re looking for a quieter alternative, consider hiking Isthmus Peak for similar views with less crowds
  • Consider giving back and supporting the protection and regeneration of Wānaka’s natural environment via Love Wānaka

FAQs Roys Peak Track

How long does it take to complete the Roys Peak Track?

It generally takes hikers 5-7 hours to complete the 16.3km track. Always plan for more time if you want to enjoy the top!

When is the best time to hike the Roys Peak Track?

The summer months (Dec-Feb) would be best, offering sunny, warm days without being crazy hot and humid. But the autumn and spring months are also a great time to hike Roys Peak! If going in winter, make sure you’re prepared for potentially snowy and icy conditions.

Are there toilets along the Roys Peak Track?

There aren’t any on the trail itself, but there’s a toilet block 200m from the car park.

Go On More New Zealand South Island Adventures

This piece was brought to you by a real living human who felt the wind in their hair and described their adventure in their own words. This is because we rate authenticity and the sharing of great experiences in the natural world – it’s all part of our ethos here at We Are Explorers. You can read more about it in our Editorial Standards.