Roys Peak Track Wanaka
Iconic 16km hike near Wanaka offering breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps. A challenging but rewarding climb.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Roys Peak Track Wanaka
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic 16km hike near Wanaka offering breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps. A challenging but rewarding climb.
"The climb is brutal, but the views are so worth it for this unreal landscape!"
Start Before Dawn
For sunrise, a 3 am start is common. Bring a headlamp! :flashlight:
Wear Sturdy Footwear
This is a tough hike. Good hiking boots are essential for grip and ankle support. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Summit View
Summit Lookout
Panoramic views of Lake Wanaka, Mount Aspiring, and the Southern Alps. A truly breathtaking reward for your efforts.
Sunrise Spectacle
Summit Lookout
Witness the sky ignite with color as the sun rises over the majestic Southern Alps. An unforgettable experience.
Sunset Serenity
Summit Lookout
Watch the golden hour paint the landscape as the sun dips below the horizon, casting long shadows over the lake.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Sunrise or Sunset? Plan Your Climb
Track Closures & Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Start Before Dawn
For sunrise, a 3 am start is common. Bring a headlamp! :flashlight: +2
Wear Sturdy Footwear
This is a tough hike. Good hiking boots are essential for grip and ankle support. :athletic_shoe:
Pack Plenty of Water
The climb is long and exposed. Carry at least 2-3 liters per person. :droplet:
Layer Up Your Clothing
Weather changes fast. Bring layers, including a waterproof jacket, even in summer. :cloud:
Tips
from all over the internet
Start Before Dawn
For sunrise, a 3 am start is common. Bring a headlamp! :flashlight: +2
Wear Sturdy Footwear
This is a tough hike. Good hiking boots are essential for grip and ankle support. :athletic_shoe:
Pack Plenty of Water
The climb is long and exposed. Carry at least 2-3 liters per person. :droplet:
Layer Up Your Clothing
Weather changes fast. Bring layers, including a waterproof jacket, even in summer. :cloud:
Be Prepared for the Descent
Downhill can be just as tough as uphill, especially on tired legs. :muscle:
Check Track Status
The track closes Oct 1-Nov 10 for lambing. Always check conditions. :information_source:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Roys Peak is lauded for its absolutely breathtaking, iconic views that many deem 'worth it' despite the challenging, steep climb. Visitors rave about the sunrise and sunset experiences, calling them unforgettable. However, some find the hike grueling and the scenery repetitive until the very top, with the descent being particularly tough on the legs.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Roys Peak Track is located about a 10-minute drive north of Wanaka. You can drive yourself and park at the trailhead, or take a taxi or shuttle service. Many visitors on road trips include it as a stop.
Yes, there is a dedicated car park at the trailhead. However, it can fill up quickly, especially during peak season and for sunrise/sunset hikes. Arrive early if you plan to drive.
While there isn't a direct public bus service to the trailhead, several shuttle companies operate from Wanaka, offering convenient transport for hikers. Booking in advance is recommended.
Direct public transport is limited. Driving or using a shuttle service from Wanaka are the most common ways to reach the Roys Peak Track.
The drive from Wanaka is short and straightforward, taking you along State Highway 6. The trailhead is well-signposted.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entry fee or ticket required to hike Roys Peak Track. It's a public access track.
The track is open year-round, 24/7, but it is closed from October 1st to November 10th for lambing season.
The track is closed annually from October 1st to November 10th to allow for lambing. Always check for any unexpected closures before your visit.
Roys Peak Track is free to access. There are no admission fees.
Yes, many people hike Roys Peak at night for sunrise. Ensure you have a reliable headlamp and are comfortable hiking in the dark. +2
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike is approximately 16km return and typically takes 5-6 hours to complete, including time at the summit. Some find it takes longer due to the steepness. +3
Roys Peak Track is rated as hard due to its steepness and elevation gain (around 1,200m). It's a strenuous climb that requires good fitness. 
Wear sturdy hiking boots, comfortable athletic clothing, and bring layers including a waterproof jacket. A hat and sunscreen are also recommended.
Essential items include plenty of water (2-3 liters), snacks, a headlamp (for sunrise/sunset), sunscreen, a hat, and a camera. +3
There are no toilets on the Roys Peak Track itself. Facilities are available at the trailhead car park. Plan accordingly.
Due to the steepness and length, Roys Peak is generally not recommended for very young children or those carried on the back. It's a challenging hike.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most spectacular light and fewer crowds than mid-day. However, these require hiking in the dark. +3
📸 📸 Photography
The main lookout offers iconic views, but continue to the summit for even more expansive panoramas. The winding track itself also makes for great photos. +1
Drone usage is generally restricted in New Zealand National Parks. Always check current regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes. A tripod can be useful for sunrise/sunset shots. Don't forget extra batteries! +1
Absolutely! Sunrise at Roys Peak is legendary, offering incredible light and colors over the mountains and lake. +3
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If your family is very experienced and fit, and your children are older and accustomed to long hikes, it might be manageable, but it's not a typical family-friendly activity. Consider shorter, less demanding walks around Wanaka if you have young children. 💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Roys Peak Hike: What to Expect
Despite the physical exertion, the views are consistently praised as being 'so worth it'. The trail winds its way up the mountainside, offering increasingly spectacular vistas of Lake Wanaka, the surrounding Southern Alps, and Mount Aspiring National Park. The landscape is dramatic and expansive, making every step of the climb feel purposeful.
+4It's crucial to be well-prepared. Hikers are advised to start very early for sunrise, often departing by 3 am, and to carry ample water (2-3 liters per person), snacks, and wear appropriate gear, including sturdy hiking boots and layers of clothing. The weather can change rapidly in the alpine environment.
Chasing the Light: Sunrise and Sunset at Roys Peak
Similarly, sunset offers a magical 'golden hour' glow. As the sun dips below the horizon, the mountains are bathed in warm, soft light, and long shadows stretch across the valley. While perhaps less crowded than sunrise, sunset also provides an unforgettable visual experience. Both sunrise and sunset hikes mean descending in low light or darkness, so preparedness is key.
It's important to note that while the views are spectacular, the track itself is a consistent climb. Some reviewers mention that the scenery doesn't change dramatically for long stretches, but the payoff at the top, especially during these prime light hours, is universally acclaimed.
Planning Your Roys Peak Adventure
Outside of this period, it's open year-round, but winter conditions can require alpine equipment. Always check the official DOC (Department of Conservation) website or local visitor information for the most up-to-date track status and weather forecasts. While the hike is free, the popularity means the car park at the trailhead can fill up very quickly, especially for sunrise and sunset. Arriving exceptionally early or considering a shuttle service from Wanaka are good strategies to ensure you can start your hike without delay.
Remember that this is a strenuous hike. It's not typically recommended for very young children or those with significant mobility issues. Proper footwear, ample water, snacks, and layered clothing are non-negotiable for a safe and enjoyable experience.
+1
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