Moke Lake Queenstown
A serene alpine lake near Queenstown, offering stunning views, hiking, camping, and horse riding.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Moke Lake Queenstown
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene alpine lake near Queenstown, offering stunning views, hiking, camping, and horse riding.
"This hidden gem offers a true escape into nature with stunning views and crisp air."
🚗 Drive Carefully on Gravel
The final road is unsealed. Take it slow and steady, especially in a larger vehicle. :car:
📵 Embrace No Signal
Enjoy being disconnected! Download maps and inform others of your plans beforehand. :iphone:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Moke Lake Loop Track
Around the lake
An easy 6km loop offering stunning lake and mountain views, perfect for walking or biking.
Camping Under the Stars
Moke Lake Campsite
Experience the magic of sleeping by the lake, surrounded by nature's tranquility.
Horse Riding Adventures
Moke Lake Horse Treks
Explore the scenic landscape on horseback for a unique and memorable experience.
Secret Moke Lake Lookout
Elevated viewpoint
Discover a breathtaking vantage point for incredible photos and panoramic views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Gravel Road
Embrace the Disconnect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive Carefully on Gravel
The final road is unsealed. Take it slow and steady, especially in a larger vehicle. :car:
📵 Embrace No Signal
Enjoy being disconnected! Download maps and inform others of your plans beforehand. :iphone:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The loop track is easy, but good walking shoes are recommended for comfort.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning lake and mountain vistas, especially from the lookout.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Carefully on Gravel
The final road is unsealed. Take it slow and steady, especially in a larger vehicle. :car:
📵 Embrace No Signal
Enjoy being disconnected! Download maps and inform others of your plans beforehand. :iphone:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The loop track is easy, but good walking shoes are recommended for comfort.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning lake and mountain vistas, especially from the lookout.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Perfect spot for a scenic lunch or snack by the water.
🏕️ Book Campsite in Advance
Popular spot for overnight stays, especially during peak season. :camping:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Moke Lake's stunning natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere, calling it a 'hidden gem' and a 'true escape'. The easy loop track and camping opportunities are highly praised. However, some find the unsealed road challenging and the lack of phone signal inconvenient.
"One of my most favourite walks in the Queenstown area for my fitness level isn’t the best. I felt like a knight with his horse and sword it was tranquil and very peaceful. Took me and my brethren only two hours"
Guide Rope the Wordle Enjoyer
"Just a short drive from Queenstown, this hidden gem offers a true escape into nature. The road in is unsealed and dotted with potholes, so a bit of care and confidence behind the wheel is needed—but the journey is part of the adventure.
When we arrived, the lake was lightly frozen, its surface dusted with delicate ice. The views were stunning, the air crisp and refreshing. It’s the perfect place to disconnect from the world—quite literally, as there was no phone signal. Peaceful, quiet, and absolutely worth the visit."
Sarah L
"The walk itself is around 2-3 hours long, depending on your fitness level. It’s a pretty easy walk, with a gradual elevation gain. The view is stunning. The only thing to know is that the last 15-20 minutes of the drive towards the parking lot are on a gravel road. It also can be pretty windy and rainy there, so check forecast in advance"
Kristina Mikhailova
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Moke Lake is about a 30-minute drive from Queenstown. The road is mostly sealed, but the last 15-20 minutes are on an unsealed gravel road with potholes. Drive carefully, especially in larger vehicles like motorhomes.
Public transport options to Moke Lake are limited. It's best accessed by car, rental vehicle, or taxi.
Yes, a 2WD vehicle can reach Moke Lake, but the gravel road requires cautious driving. Chains are recommended if conditions are icy or very wet.
Moke Lake Road is scenic but can be narrow and unsealed in parts, with some potholes. A slow and steady approach is advised.
Yes, there is a parking area at the Moke Lake Track trailhead, which is the starting point for the loop walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entry fee to visit Moke Lake itself. However, camping at the Moke Lake Campsite incurs a fee.
Moke Lake is accessible year-round, with no set opening or closing hours for general access. The campsite operates on a booking system.
Campsites at Moke Lake can be booked online through the Queenstown Lakes District Council website or relevant booking platforms. Booking in advance is highly recommended.
No specific permits are required for day visits to Moke Lake. However, camping requires booking a site.
Yes, kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities at Moke Lake. You can bring your own equipment or rent from local operators.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The Moke Lake Loop Track is an easy 6km walk that circles the lake. It takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete and offers beautiful scenery.
The Moke Lake Loop Track is generally considered easy with gradual elevation, making it suitable for most fitness levels.
Expect stunning views of the lake, surrounded by mountains and often reflecting the sky. It's a very peaceful and tranquil setting.
No, there is very little to no phone signal at Moke Lake, which makes it a great place to disconnect.
Basic facilities like toilets are available at the Moke Lake Campsite. There are no shops or cafes on-site.
📸 📸 Photography
The Moke Lake Loop Track offers numerous picturesque spots. The 'Secret Moke Lake Lookout' provides a fantastic elevated perspective for panoramic shots.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful golden light. However, the lake's reflections can be stunning at any time of day, especially on calm mornings.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas or at specific times. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
Moke Lake is ideal for landscape, nature, and reflection photography. It's also a popular spot for engagement and portrait shoots.
The Secret Moke Lake Lookout is highly recommended for its elevated views. The shores of the lake also provide excellent opportunities for capturing reflections.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Camping at Moke Lake can be an adventurous and memorable experience for families. It's a great opportunity to disconnect from screens and reconnect with nature. Ensure you have all necessary supplies, as amenities are basic. The lack of phone signal can be a blessing, encouraging family interaction and outdoor play.
🚶 Hikers and Nature Lovers
+1Beyond the loop, the area offers opportunities for further exploration, though specific trails beyond the main loop are less defined. The drive in, while requiring care, leads to a truly secluded spot that feels a world away from Queenstown's bustle. It's an ideal location for photography, birdwatching, and simply soaking in the natural beauty.
+1🏕️ Campers and Backpackers
Be prepared for a rustic camping experience. Facilities are basic, and you'll need to be self-sufficient with food, water, and gear. The lack of phone signal is a significant aspect, so plan accordingly. It's an excellent base for exploring the area and enjoying stargazing in clear skies.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Moke Lake Loop Track Experience
+1Many reviewers praise the track for its tranquility and stunning scenery. The path is well-defined, though some sections can be a bit uneven. You can choose to walk the entire loop or opt for shorter out-and-back sections. Mountain bikers also frequent the track, so be mindful of sharing the path.
Key takeaway: This is a must-do for anyone visiting Moke Lake, offering a rewarding experience without requiring strenuous effort. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring water.
Camping and Glamping at Moke Lake
For those seeking a more comfortable stay, options like Glam Camping Queenstown offer a glamping experience near Moke Lake. This allows you to enjoy the magical setting with added amenities. Whether you choose traditional camping or glamping, waking up to the stillness of the lake is an unforgettable experience.
Important note: Be prepared for limited facilities and no phone signal, which is part of the charm for many seeking a true escape.
Photography Opportunities
The reflections on the water, especially during calm mornings, create stunning mirror-like images. Beyond the lookout, the entire loop track provides ample opportunities for landscape and nature photography. The changing light throughout the day, particularly during sunrise and sunset, can transform the scenery. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the landscape and a polarizing filter to enhance the colors and reduce glare on the water.
Pro Tip: While Moke Lake is beautiful year-round, consider visiting during autumn for vibrant foliage or winter for a chance to see the lake partially frozen, offering a unique photographic subject.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit