Hooker Valley Track Closed? Best Mount Cook Hikes to Do Instead

The Hooker Valley Track is one of the most popular and iconic hikes in Mount Cook National Park. This stunning trail attracts thousands of visitors each year thanks to its easy terrain and unbeatable views of Aoraki/Mount Cook.

But what happens when the Hooker Valley Track is closed due to weather, flooding, or bridge maintenance? Well, there are plenty of incredible Mount Cook hikes you can do instead.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best alternative hikes grouped by difficulty so you can still enjoy an unforgettable day in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.

Hooker Valley Track Closed? Best alternative hikes

This was my third visit to Mount Cook, and I had planned to show my little brother the famous Hooker Valley. As we were travelling in Autumn, I checked the DOC for weather conditions and track updates and discovered the Hooker Valley Track closure.

After a bit of last-minute research, we ended up choosing an alternative hike, and I am so glad we did. We decided to do the Sealy Tarns Track, which rewarded us with unbelievable bird’s-eye views over Aoraki/Mount Cook, Mount Sefton, Mueller Glacier, Hooker Glacier, and the glacial lakes below.

This encouraged me to look at other hikes in the area that weren’t as popular and found these gems. 

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Why is the hooker valley track closed?

The Hooker Valley Track will be closed until Autumn 2026. This is due to the second swing bridge being unsafe to cross due to severe riverbank erosion from heavy wind and rain. 

The DOC is building a new one that will withstand the test of time and weather. Keep an eye out on their website for the reopening, which will hopefully be in May. 

You can still walk to the first viewpoint, but as you need to turn back before the second bridge, it makes more sense to find an alternative hike.

Before tackling these trails, I recommend wearing sturdy trainers or hiking shoes that can cater to a mixture of easy trails and hard scrambles. 

Proper grip makes a huge difference.

If you haven’t invested already, I highly recommend the Salomon cross hikes as they are lightweight with good traction, they are sturdy like a hiking boot but in the form of a trainer, making them comfortable and easy to pack. 

I have been using them since 2023 and absolutely love them. They’ve carried me on hikes in Canada, Australia, the UK, and New Zealand.

Easy Hooker Valley Track alternatives

Blue Lakes & Tasman Lake Walk

Distance: 2.8 km / 1.7 miles
Time: 40 to 60 minutes return
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation gain: ~100 m
Track type: Out and back
Starting point: Blue Lakes’ car park (near Tasman Glacier)

The Blue Lakes & Tasman Lake Walk is one of the easiest and most accessible walks in Mount Cook National Park. Despite the name, the Blue Lakes are often green rather than blue.

The track is flat and follows a well-formed path with a gentle incline before reaching viewpoints over Tasman Lake. 

There are a few steps involved, but not as many as the viewpoint. This a great option if you want scenery without the hardship. 

Tasman Glacier Lookout 

Distance: 1.1km / 0.7 miles 
Duration: 30 minutes return
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation: 76m 
Track Type: Out and back
Starting point: Tasman Glacier Car Park 

The Tasman Glacier Lookout Track is a short but rewarding walk that begins directly from the Tasman Glacier Car Park. 

From here, the track quickly leads into a well-formed path before turning into a series of 300 steps that climb steadily up to the main viewing platform.

At the top, you are rewarded with sweeping views over Tasman Glacier Lake.

Depending on the season, you can see icebergs floating across the milky-blue water. 

On a clear day, you can see the glacier stretching down from the mountains, making this one of the most impressive easy walks in Mount Cook.

Callum and I did this walk after hiking Sealy Tarns, and by that point our legs were already jelly. Callum was a little grumpy when he realised there were another 300 steps involved (something I may have forgotten to mention beforehand), but even he agreed the views were worth the short climb.

After spending time at the lookout, the track returns the same way back down to the car park. 

This walk is very popular with tour buses, so expect to share the viewing platform, especially in the middle of the day. 

Kea Point Track

Distance: 2.9 km / 1.8 miles
Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour return
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation gain: 88 m
Track type: Out and back
Starting point: White Horse Hill Campground

The Kea Point Track starts from the White Horse Hill Campground. Following the same wide, well-maintained path used for the Sealy Tarns Track. This makes it an easy add-on if you’re already hiking Sealy Tarns, as both trails share the same starting and ending sections.

From the campground, the track gently climbs through alpine terrain before branching off toward Kea Point. The walk is mostly gradual, with a steady incline rather than steep steps, making it accessible for most fitness levels. After around 30 minutes, you’ll reach the Kea Point lookout, where the views open up.

You will see stunning views of Mount Sefton, The Footstool, the Hooker Valley, Mueller Glacier Lake, and Aoraki/Mount Cook. 

After taking in the views, the track returns the same way to the campground. If you’re pairing this walk with Sealy Tarns, allow an extra 30 minutes return, and make sure you do it after the tarns rather than before (trust me). 

This hike delivers big rewards for minimal effort, especially if you’re short on time or energy but still want incredible Mount Cook scenery.

Why is it called Kea Point?

The lookout is named after the kea, New Zealand’s alpine parrot. However, ironically, they are never seen hanging around this hike. 

Even on shorter hikes like Kea Point, I recommend carrying a small day pack for water, snacks, suncream, and layers. 

The weather can change quickly in Mount Cook, so it’s always wise to carry the essentials. 

Moderate Hooker Valley Track alternatives

Sealy Tarns

Distance: 5.8 km / 3.6 miles
Time: 3 to 4 hours return
Elevation gain: 600 m
Track type: Out and back
Trailhead: White Horse Hill Campground

The Sealy Tarns Track starts from White Horse Hill Campground with a short, flat walk on a well-marked gravel path. You’ll see signage almost immediately for Sealy Tarns, Kea Point, and Mueller Hut, making it easy to find the correct trail. While it’s possible to start from Mount Cook Village, doing so adds an extra hour, so the campground is the most practical starting point.

After about 10 minutes, you’ll reach a fork in the track. Turning left begins the famous climb up the 2,200 steps, while turning right leads to the Kea Point Track. If you’re planning to do both, I highly recommend saving Kea Point for the end. You will want all your energy for the stairs.

The climb winds through bushland and beech trees, zigzagging steadily uphill. Although the distance isn’t long, the constant steps make this hike feel challenging, especially if you’re short like me with little legs and small lungs. I took plenty of breaks (or photo opportunities), as the views kept getting better, especially when Mueller Lake came into view.

Eventually, the stairs stop, and it’s a short, gentle incline to the Sealy Tarns viewpoint. 

This is one of the most beautiful and rewarding views. 

You will be surrounded by Aoraki/Mount Cook, Mount Sefton, Mueller Glacier, Hooker Glacier, and the glacial lakes below. 

There’s even a long picnic bench at the top, which might be one of the most scenic lunch spots in the park.

The track is an out-and-back, and while the descent is easier on the lungs, it can be tough on tired legs. By the time Cal and I reached the bottom, our legs were like jelly. 

It was absolutely worth it.

👉 For a full breakdown of the climb, step count, viewpoints, and tips, you can read my complete Sealy Tarns Track guide here.

Red Tarns Track

Distance: 3.7 km / 2.3 miles
Time: 1.5 to 2.5 hours return
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation gain: 330 m
Track type: Out and back
Starting point: Mount Cook Village public shelter on Bowen Drive

The Red Tarns Track is a short but steep hike. The trail starts near the public shelter in Mount Cook Village on Bowen Drive. The trail climbs quickly, with a steady ascent and a significant number of steps packed into a relatively short distance.

Although the elevation gain is only around 330 metres, the climb can feel challenging due to how direct it is. That said, the reward at the top makes the effort worthwhile. From the viewpoint, you’ll get panoramic views over Mount Cook Village, the Hooker Valley, and Aoraki/Mount Cook.

This is a much quieter lookout than some of the more popular trails.

The hike gets its name from the small alpine tarns at the top. Which often appear red due to a rare species of pondweed. These tarns add a unique contrast to the surrounding alpine landscape and make this hike feel a little different from others in the national park.

After taking in the views, the track returns the same way back down to the village. The Red Tarns is a great option if you’re short on time but still want a rewarding Mount Cook hike.

If you want to save your knees you might want to invest in some hiking poles. 

Challenging Alternative Hikes to Hooker Valley

Mueller Hut Track 

Distance: 10km return / 6.2 miles
Time: 5 to 7 hours return
Difficulty: Challenging
Elevation gain: 1,000m 
Track type: Out and back
Starting point: White Horse Hill Campground (via Sealy Tarns Track)

If you fancy a challenge, and you love a scramble and epic views, then you need to do the Mueller Hut track.

This track is a continuation of the Sealy Tarns. Just before the viewpoint, there is a left turn that will lead you up the trail. I would still go to the Tarns viewpoint as it’s literally 100m extra and 100% worth it. 

The well-maintained path will end, and the trail will become noticeably rougher and more exposed. From here, the track is less defined and far more demanding.

Once you start gaining elevation beyond Sealy Tarns, temperatures can drop quickly, even on clear days. I highly recommend packing a warm layer.  

Make sure you have plenty of daylight, as night scrambling is never a fun experience. 

This is an out-and-back hike. Whatever time and energy you spend going up, you’ll need again to get back down.

While I took my time on Sealy Tarns, Callum decided to continue up the Mueller Hut Track. Although it’s only 1.1 km longer than Sealy Tarns and looks like an extra 20 minutes on Google Maps, that estimate doesn’t account for the steep, rocky terrain.

In reality, you should be prepared to add another couple of hours if you plan to continue. Callum made it as far as the ridge before turning back to meet me for lunch.

It is possible to hike to Mueller Hut in a day, but many people choose to book an overnight stay. The hut is famous for its sunsets and sunrise views, making it a popular option. 

Mount Olliver Summit 

Distance: 11.1 km / 6.9 miles
Time: 6 to 8 hours return
Difficulty: Challenging
Elevation gain: 1,151 m
Track type: Out and back
Starting point: White Horse Hill Campground

The Mount Ollivier Summit hike is essentially three hikes in one, combining Sealy Tarns, the Mueller Hut Track, and a final alpine scramble to the summit. This is a serious full-day hike and is best suited for experienced hikers with good fitness and confidence on steep terrain. 

The first section follows the Sealy Tarns Track, climbing the well-known 2,200 steps from White Horse Hill Campground. From there, the route continues past the Sealy Tarns viewpoint onto the Mueller Hut Track, where the trail becomes rougher and more natural. 

The final section begins near Mueller Hut and leads up to the summit of Mount Ollivier. While this last push is relatively short, it is the steepest part of the hike and involves a rocky scramble where conditions can change quickly. 

Those who reach the summit are rewarded with 360-degree panoramic views over the surrounding glaciers, valleys, and alpine peaks, making it one of the most spectacular viewpoints in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.

Which Mount Cook Hike Should You Choose?

If Hooker Valley is closed and you want easy → Kea Point / Tasman Glacier

For the best views without scrambling → Sealy Tarns

If you want a short but tough climb that is super rewarding→ Red Tarns

For the experienced and well-prepared → Mueller Hut / Ollivier Summit

If you’re planning to spend more time in the area, I’ve shared my recommendations on where to stay in Mount Cook and other things to do nearby in my full Sealy Tarns guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often does the Hooker Valley Track close?

The Hooker Valley Track can close at any time due to flooding, high winds, bridge maintenance, or safety concerns. Closures are more common after heavy rain and outside of peak summer. It is always worth checking the latest DOC updates before visiting. 

Can beginners hike in Mount Cook if the Hooker Valley Track is closed?

Yes. If the Hooker Valley Track is closed, there are still several easy and beginner-friendly walks in Mount Cook, such as the Kea Point Track and the Tasman Glacier View Track. These offer incredible views without steep climbs or technical terrain.

Do I need hiking boots for Mount Cook walks?

For easy walks like Tasman Glacier, most shoes are acceptable but for the longer and more technical trails like the Sealy Tarns or Mueller Hut you need a solid hiking trainer or boot with good grip.

Can you hike Mueller Hut or Mount Ollivier in one day?

Yes, experienced hikers can complete Mueller Hut or Mount Ollivier in a single day, but both are long and demanding hikes. Many people choose to stay overnight at Mueller Hut to break the climb up and enjoy the alpine views more safely.

Final Thoughts

In summary, finding out that the Hooker Valley Track is closed can feel disappointing, especially if it was the main hike on your Mount Cook itinerary. But the good news is that Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is packed with incredible alternatives that suit all fitness levels, from short scenic walks to full alpine challenges.

Whether you’re looking for an easy option, a rewarding climb, or an advanced adventure, there’s no shortage of unforgettable views in this national park. With a little flexibility and planning, a track closure can lead you to an even better hike.