Queenstown Hill Time Walk
A rewarding uphill hike offering breathtaking panoramic views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the Southern Alps.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sunrise magic & solitude
Queenstown Hill Time Walk
Best Time
Sunrise magic & solitude
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A rewarding uphill hike offering breathtaking panoramic views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the Southern Alps.
"One of My Favourite Hikes on the South Island – Queenstown Hill Walkway!"
👟 Footwear Check
Running shoes might suffice, but check trail conditions, especially in winter. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Pack Essentials
No facilities on the trail! Bring water, snacks, and use the restroom before you go. :water_wave:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Summit Views
Queenstown Hill Summit
Panoramic vistas of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the Southern Alps. Unforgettable scenery!
Basket of Dreams
Near the summit
An iconic sculpture offering a unique perspective and a great photo opportunity.
Fairy Forest
Along the trail
A whimsical collection of small fairy houses, delightful for families and the young at heart.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Ascent
Footwear & What to Bring
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Footwear Check
Running shoes might suffice, but check trail conditions, especially in winter. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Pack Essentials
No facilities on the trail! Bring water, snacks, and use the restroom before you go. :water_wave:
📸 Photo Spots
Stop at viewpoints along the way for stunning lake and mountain shots. :camerawithflash:
🧚♀️ Fairy Fun
Discover the charming fairy forest – a delightful surprise for all ages! :sparkles:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Footwear Check
Running shoes might suffice, but check trail conditions, especially in winter. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Pack Essentials
No facilities on the trail! Bring water, snacks, and use the restroom before you go. :water_wave:
📸 Photo Spots
Stop at viewpoints along the way for stunning lake and mountain shots. :camerawithflash:
🧚♀️ Fairy Fun
Discover the charming fairy forest – a delightful surprise for all ages! :sparkles:
⬆️ Pace Yourself
It's a steady uphill climb; enjoy the journey and take breaks. :hiking_boot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Queenstown Hill Time Walk for its stunning panoramic summit views and accessible nature, making it a rewarding experience for most. While some note the steady uphill climb and limited views during parts of the ascent, the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the beauty and tranquility of the trail.
"We loved this beautiful track. It’s mostly uphill, so pace yourself and enjoy a slow, steady climb. Along the way, there are a few perfect spots to stop, catch your breath, and snap some great photos. The scenery is full of lush trees and peaceful nature, making the walk as relaxing as it is rewarding. We really enjoyed it and would come back to do it again. You can also bring something cute to put alongside other fairies."
A. Moe
"Just above the city center, about 2.5 km away, but with an elevation gain of about 400 m. A trail mostly in the forest until you reach the summit with a breathtaking view. I recommend continuing on the path for another 400 meters and turning right to reach a rock that overlooks the eastern side for a mesmerizing sunrise."
Aviah Shochetman
"Great accessible walk located 5 minute drive from the town centre with plenty of parking. Well maintained walk track that I would happily take my young children on. Great views once you get to the Basket of Dreams and cute little fairy forest that the kids would enjoy. Super easy traverse down and spotted some deer and goats too. No bathrooms or water facilities so make sure to go toilet before you start and bring some water."
David Le
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead is easily accessible via a small car park off Belford Terrace, just a few minutes' drive from Queenstown's town center. Some visitors also walk from town, though it adds to the distance.
Yes, there is a car park available at the trailhead off Belford Terrace, making it convenient for those driving.
Yes, you can walk from the town center, but be aware that it's about 2.5 km with a significant elevation gain.
Driving to the Belford Terrace car park is the most direct and recommended way to start the Queenstown Hill Time Walk.
While not directly served by public transport to the trailhead, you can take a bus into Queenstown and then arrange a short taxi or walk to the start of the trail.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Queenstown Hill Time Walk is a public trail and does not require any tickets or admission fees. It's completely free to access.
The trail is open 24/7, as it's an outdoor public space. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment of the views.
There is no entrance fee for the Queenstown Hill Time Walk. Access to the trail and its summit views is free for everyone.
While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to the lack of lighting and potential safety concerns. Daylight hours are best for this hike.
No booking is required. You can simply show up and start your hike whenever you wish.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The walk is typically 2-3 hours return, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the summit. Some find it takes about an hour up and 15-20 minutes down.
It's considered a moderate hike, mostly uphill with a steady incline. It's well-maintained and suitable for most fitness levels, though it can be steep in parts.
You'll get breathtaking panoramic views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, The Remarkables mountain range, and the surrounding Southern Alps.
No, there are no restrooms or water facilities on the Queenstown Hill Time Walk. It's essential to use facilities before you start and carry your own water.
Yes, many reviewers find it to be a well-maintained track suitable for young children, especially with the added charm of the fairy forest.
The 'Time Walk' refers to the journey itself and the historical and natural elements you encounter, culminating in the summit views that offer a sense of perspective.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible panoramic views. Also, don't miss the 'Basket of Dreams' sculpture and various viewpoints along the trail for diverse shots.
Sunrise is particularly recommended for photographers, with one reviewer suggesting continuing past the main summit to a rock overlooking the eastern side for a mesmerizing sunrise.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A tripod can be useful for sunrise/sunset shots, but keep gear light for the climb.
Yes, the 'Basket of Dreams' sculpture and the charming fairy forest provide unique and memorable photo opportunities.
While tree growth can obscure some direct views of Queenstown from certain points, the summit offers excellent perspectives of the lake and surrounding mountains.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Solo Travelers & Hikers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider an early morning hike to capture the mesmerizing sunrise, with specific advice to venture slightly beyond the main summit for the best vantage points. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Time Walk' Experience
The name 'Time Walk' hints at the contemplative nature of the experience. It's a chance to slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and appreciate the stunning scenery unfolding around you. Many visitors find the solitude, especially if they hike early, to be a highlight, allowing them to truly soak in the panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and the majestic Southern Alps.
For those with children, the trail also features a delightful 'fairy forest,' adding an element of magic and wonder to the ascent. This blend of natural beauty, artistic elements, and a touch of whimsy makes the Queenstown Hill Time Walk a unique and memorable activity for a wide range of visitors.
Navigating the Trail and Summit Views
Upon reaching the summit, you are rewarded with truly spectacular 360-degree views. This is where the 'Time Walk' truly shines, offering expansive vistas of Lake Wakatipu, the Queenstown township, and the dramatic peaks of the Remarkables and other Southern Alps.
Many visitors recommend continuing slightly past the main summit area to find elevated viewpoints for even more dramatic photographic opportunities, particularly for sunrise. While the main trail offers incredible scenery, some reviewers suggest that other hikes in the area might offer more varied terrain or direct views of Queenstown itself. However, for its accessibility, rewarding summit, and the unique 'Basket of Dreams' feature, the Queenstown Hill Time Walk remains a highly recommended activity for its sheer scenic beauty and the sense of accomplishment it provides.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit