Lake Sylvan Track
An enchanting, easy forest walk near Glenorchy, famous for its moss-covered trees and tranquil lake views. Perfect for all ages.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer people, more peace
Lake Sylvan Track
Best Time
Fewer people, more peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An enchanting, easy forest walk near Glenorchy, famous for its moss-covered trees and tranquil lake views. Perfect for all ages.
"Felt like we were in another world in the forest. When you get to the lake it’s so so tranquil."
👟 Easy Walking Shoes
The track is mostly flat and well-maintained, perfect for comfortable walking shoes.
📸 Capture the Moss
Bring your camera to photograph the stunning mosses and lichens; macro shots are a must!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Moss-Covered Forest
The main forest path
Wander through an enchanting forest carpeted in vibrant mosses and lichens, creating a magical, otherworldly atmosphere.
Tranquil Lake Views
Lake Sylvan lookout
Reach a serene lake viewpoint offering peaceful vistas and a chance to soak in the surrounding natural beauty.
Abundant Birdlife
Throughout the track
Keep an eye and ear out for native New Zealand birds, including robins and kaka, adding a lively soundtrack to your walk.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
+1Easy Access, Big Rewards
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Easy Walking Shoes
The track is mostly flat and well-maintained, perfect for comfortable walking shoes.
📸 Capture the Moss
Bring your camera to photograph the stunning mosses and lichens; macro shots are a must!
🐦 Listen for Birds
The forest is alive with native birds. Take a moment to listen and spot them.
Check DOC Updates
Always check the Department of Conservation website for track conditions and bridge status.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Easy Walking Shoes
The track is mostly flat and well-maintained, perfect for comfortable walking shoes.
📸 Capture the Moss
Bring your camera to photograph the stunning mosses and lichens; macro shots are a must!
🐦 Listen for Birds
The forest is alive with native birds. Take a moment to listen and spot them.
Check DOC Updates
Always check the Department of Conservation website for track conditions and bridge status.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Lake Sylvan Track's enchanting moss-covered forest and tranquil lake views, often describing it as a peaceful escape. The track's easy, flat nature makes it accessible for all, though some find the lake views slightly underwhelming compared to the magical forest experience.
"First day of the track reopening we had a great wander today. The new bridge is well out of flood reach and the track is now a 7
6.5km return journey to the lookout."
Big Matt
"This track is very beautiful, no elevation, easy to do it. It's very quiet, you gonna see very few people around. The forest isn't dense and it's covered in fluffy mosses, which was very nice for me to see it and touch it. The path is very clean and well maintained."
Demetrius Surdi
"Easy loop walk. The bush is open with quite a bit of bird life, spotting a Kaka in the trees. The view of the lake is nice but was a little underwhelmed by this hike"
D&C Lambert
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lake Sylvan Track is located near Glenorchy, about an hour's drive from Queenstown. The drive itself is incredibly scenic, passing through stunning landscapes. You'll need a car or to arrange transport to reach the trailhead.
Yes, there is a carpark at the trailhead. It can get busy during peak times, so arriving early is recommended, especially if you're planning to connect to the Routeburn Track.
Absolutely! Lake Sylvan Track is a perfect day trip from Queenstown. The drive to Glenorchy and the walk itself can easily be done within a day, offering a refreshing escape into nature.
The drive to Glenorchy and then to Lake Sylvan Track is renowned for its breathtaking scenery. It's often described as one of the most beautiful drives in New Zealand, with views of mountains, rivers, and Lake Wakatipu.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Lake Sylvan Track is free. It's part of the Mount Aspiring National Park and managed by the Department of Conservation (DOC).
The track is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the scenery.
There is no entrance fee to access Lake Sylvan Track. It's a public access track within the national park.
No booking is required for the Lake Sylvan Track itself. However, if you plan to use the Sylvan Campsite, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The loop track typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to admire the views.
No, the Lake Sylvan Track is considered an easy walk. It's mostly flat with minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for most fitness levels.
You can expect beautiful forest scenery with abundant mosses and lichens, as well as tranquil views of Lake Sylvan. There's also a good chance of spotting native birds.
Yes, the easy nature of the track makes it very suitable for children. It's a great way to introduce them to New Zealand's natural beauty in a safe and accessible environment.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Layers of clothing are advisable as the weather can change quickly in the mountains. A waterproof jacket is also a good idea.
📸 📸 Photography
The moss-covered forest floor and ancient trees are incredibly photogenic. The tranquil lake views and opportunities to photograph native birds also make for stunning shots.
Absolutely! The abundant mosses, lichens, and intricate details of the forest floor are perfect subjects for macro photography.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more atmospheric glow.
Drone usage is generally restricted in New Zealand National Parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check the DOC guidelines and local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Photographers
hikers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Forest
Many visitors describe the forest as feeling otherworldly, a sentiment echoed in reviews. The well-maintained path ensures you can comfortably explore this unique environment. Keep an eye out for the diverse plant life and the subtle beauty of fungi and ferns that thrive in this damp, shaded habitat.
Connecting to the Routeburn Track
The Sylvan Campsite is located nearby, offering a convenient base for trekkers. While the Lake Sylvan Track itself is a relatively short and easy walk, it provides a taste of the stunning Fiordland and Mount Aspiring National Parks. The scenery here, with its mountains and pristine waters, sets the stage for the more challenging and extensive landscapes of the Routeburn.
+1 It's a great way to acclimatize and prepare for longer hikes, offering a peaceful environment before the adventure truly begins. Accessibility and Ease of Walk
This makes it an ideal choice for families with young children, older adults, or anyone recovering from physical exertion, as mentioned by a Reddit user seeking easy scenic hikes.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit