Roys Peak Hike: Is it Worth it? And all you need to know

One of the most iconic images from New Zealand is taken during the Roys Peak hike, so even if you haven’t heard of it, you probably will recognise it. Easily the most popular hike in Wanaka, and one of the most well-known in New Zealand.

It is a hard hike, but popular, and I firmly believe it is popular for a reason. The scenery is absolutely breathtaking, and there is nothing like the ‘standing on the edge of the world’ feeling that this hike gives you. I embarked on this hike as a Christmas Eve challenge for myself, and I am so pleased I did. Here is everything you need to know about the Roys Peak Hike, and if it is worth it!

What is the Roys Peak Hike

Here are some quick stats about the Roys Peak Hike:

• Distance: 16 KM
• Trail type: Out-and-back (or return) via the same route
• Time: 6 – 8 hours
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Elevation Gain: 1,300 metres

The Roys Peak Hike is the famous, and challenging, hike near Wanaka that affords you endless views of the absolutely stunning South Island scenery. You are quite literally hiking up a mountain to reach first the photo stop, and then the summit. It is iconic because of that image online, but anyone who has undertaken the effort to get there deserves to spread that photo far and wide.

As you gain elevation, the landscape opens up quickly. Lake Wanaka stretches out below you, changing colour with the light, while snow-capped peaks and wide alpine valleys start to dominate the horizon. Higher up, the terrain becomes more rugged and exposed, with tussock-covered slopes and uninterrupted views in almost every direction. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Mount Aspiring, with layers of mountains rolling off into the distance. It’s a hike where the scenery only gets better the higher up you go.

Where is the Roys Peak Hike

Roys Peak trailhead is around 7.5KM from the nearby town of Wanaka. Wanaka is around an hour’s drive from Queenstown, on the South Island of New Zealand.

The hike itself is located just on the edge of Mount Aspiring National Park.

When to Complete the Roys Peak Hike

Best time of year

The best time of the year to complete the Roys Peak Hike is during the shoulder seasons, from mid-November to mid-December and mid-February through to mid-May. However, you might want to avoid the Easter Holiday period, when it can get busy. Technically, February should offer the best chance of a clear day. The summer (December-February) offers the warmest, clearest days, but is very busy, while hiking just outside of this provides cooler temperatures and stunning, golden landscapes. 

If you choose to hike in the winter, check the weather and be prepared with crampons if needed.

Note that the track is closed from the 1st of October until the 10th of November every year due to lambing.

Best time of day

Early morning is the best time of day to complete the Roys Peak hike. There are fewer crowds, but it gets busy from mid-morning onwards. This time of day also has better light. This time of day is also cooler; there is no shade on the trail, so it can be very exposed. Avoid the midday sun! A very popular time to complete the hike is at sunrise. Making it to the photo spot just before. Soft light is cast over Lake Wanaka and the surrounding peaks, which is why the photos look so good.

The late afternoon evening light casts shadows that aren’t quite as stunning as the morning light. If you are going to do it in the afternoon, be aware that this means you need to be mindful of hiking down in the dark.

What to consider if you hike for sunrise

You will be setting off on the hike in the dark. To make it to the photo spot for sunrise, you would need to leave around 3 hours before the time of sunrise. This means you need an early alarm and a head torch for the first half of the hike.

The track is well formed and easy to follow, so while you need to watch where you are going, it isn’t hard to follow the trail even in the dark. However, even in summer, it is cold in the morning, so thin layers and a coat are going to be needed. Before sunrise, temperatures can be close to freezing, as well as windy towards the top.

When Not to Complete the Hike

Don’t bother doing the hike when it’s cloudy. Roys Peak is all about the views, and low cloud can completely block Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains. Because the trail is long, steep, and fully exposed, doing it on a cloudy day often means a lot of effort for very little reward.

Strong winds, rain, or snow can also make the hike uncomfortable and, in some conditions, unsafe, especially near the summit. If the forecast isn’t clear, it’s usually worth waiting for a better day or choosing a lower, more sheltered walk instead.

A first-person point-of-view shot looking down from a high rocky ledge. The toes of tan and white hiking shoes are visible at the bottom of the frame. Below, a long, winding dirt trail with numerous switchbacks stretches across a golden-brown mountainside toward a distant green valley and blue water.

What to Pack for the Roys Peak Hike

The Roys Peak hike is long, and it is challenging. So you need to make sure you are prepared for a 8 hour hike, with no shade.

Take the following:

• A warm, lightweight coat. Particularly if you are doing the hike for sunrise. Temperatures, even in the summer, can go below freezing.
• Thin layers. Ones that you can peel off as it, and you, get warmer.
• Sturdy hiking boots. You will want good footwear for this hike
• Sun cap. There is no shade on the trail.
• Good sunscreen.
• Sunglasses
• Plenty of fuelling snacks and drinking water.
• Hiking poles. Optional, but your knees will thank you on the way down!

How Hard is the Hike?

There isn’t really any getting around it; this is a hard hike. I personally found it harder than the Tongariro Crossing, which is renowned for being difficult. It isn’t that it is technically challenging; there are no parts where you have to scramble over rocks, it is just relentless. There are essentially no flat bits, so it is a relentless slog uphill. And it is steep. Plus, with no shade, if youare doing it in the daytime, expect it to be hot. Basically, there is just very little respite.

What to expect on Roys Peak

The trail climbs steadily on private farmland on the edge of Mount Aspiring National Park, with no shade. So what can you expect?

Endless switchbacks

As mentioned earlier, the only way up Roys Peak Hike is up, and this comes in the form of endless switchbacks. They are on a wide, gravel track, so the route is extremely easy to follow, but it does feel endless! Luckily, the views only get better as you climb, so while the first part may be a little repetitive, the latter more than makes up for it.

The iconic photo spot

This is the most famous point on the Roys Peak hike, the Lookout. And let’s face it, the reason to complete it. I was surprised to find this wasn’t actually the summit! It is actually at around 1,110 metres high, and around 7 KM into the hike. It is one of the most beautiful views you will ever see. The landscape is endless, the mountains, the lakes and the stunning surrounding nature make this so worth all the effort.

The summit

A lot of people will turn back after reaching Roys Peak lookout, but if you have it in you to complete the final 1 KM of the hike, you won’t regret it. The views are even more special from up there! It is actually a signal tower, with a concrete platform. And, as a lot of people chose not to carry on to the summit, it is often very quiet. A perfect place to sit, relax, recoup and refresh before starting the return.

The Return

The way down – the same way you came up. Expect 8 KM of pure downhill switchbacks. Along the same well-formed path and passing the same sheep. This is where hiking poles might come in handy, as it is relentless on the knees.

How to get to the trailhead

Well, first things first. Don’t walk from Wanaka town centre. You are about to embark on one of the hardest day hikes, and the last thing you need is to add more steps before and after. There are multiple options for how to get to Roys Peak hike.

If you have a car, the easiest way is to drive yourself. There is a car park at the beginning of the trailhead. It does get quite full up, so the best bet is to get there early.

If you don’t, then nearly all accommodations, and especially hostels, organise shuttles to the trailhead. Finally, there are going to be plenty of people in Wanaka wanting to embark on the hike, use facebook or ask around to join up and share a private shuttle.

Can you do Roys Peak Solo?

Yes, absolutely! In fact, this is how I did it. As it is a popular hike, there are going to be other people on the trail, so you won’t feel alone or isolated at any point. There will also be other people at the iconic photo stop, so you are sure to be able to ask someone to take your photo for you.

Is the Roys Peak Hike Worth it?

1000000% yes. I am so pleased I took on the challenge to complete this hike, and even more proud of myself for doing it solo. I actually completed it on Christmas Eve, and what a fantastic early Christmas present to myself!

Undoubtedly one of the hardest hikes I have done, but it is doable, and the feeling of reward makes it all so worthwhile. Some of the best views in New Zealand are famous for good reason.

Alternatives to the Roys Peak Hike from Wanaka

If you have already cmompleted hte Roys Peak hike and are looking for another challenge, or fancy a hike that is perhaps a little bit easier, Wanaka has some great other options:

• Mount Iron Track: A firm favourite in Wanaka, it’s short, accessible, and offers a surprisingly good panorama for the effort involved, especially at sunrise or sunset.
• Rocky Mountain Track: It’s a much easier walk, but still gives you elevated views over Lake Wanaka and the surrounding peaks. Perfect if you want a scenic hike without committing to a full day.
• Isthmus Peak: Equally as challenging as the Roys Peak hike, longer, but far quieter. It offers you sweeping views over both Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea. It feels wilder and more remote, making it a great option if you want the scenery without the crowds.

What Else to do in Wanaka

There is more to Wanaka than just hiking, and if you are staying for a few days, check out some of these places to see:

• #thatwanakatree: Wānaka’s most famous tree stands alone in the lake, drawing photographers and Instagrammers from all over. It might be slightly overhyped, and it is not going to be the secluded spot you imagine, but it is impressive to see.
• Blue Pools: Found along the road between Wānaka and the West Coast, the Blue Pools are known for their vivid turquoise water. A short forest walk and swing bridge lead you to this peaceful spot, great for a quick dip if you’re brave.
• Rippon Vineyard: Overlooking Lake Wānaka, Rippon is a vineyard with arguably the best view in New Zealand. Sip a local Pinot Noir while soaking in the scenery, and you’ll understand why this place is so special.
• Wander around the town: home to a lot of cute bakeries, restaurants, and independent stores, this is the perfect way to recover after a hike.

Where to Stay in Wanaka

Wanaka has plenty of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Here are some of the best:

BUDGET OPTIONS:
Haka House – A clean and comfy hostel, you can’t go wrong with one from the Haka chain.
Mountain View Backpackers – Friendly, affordable, and well-located

MID-RANGE OPTIONS:
Edgewater Hotel Wanaka – Right on the lakefront, offering comfortable rooms and beautiful views without luxury pricing.
Wanaka Springs Lodge – A cosy lodge-style stay with mountain views, hot tubs, and a relaxed atmosphere.

LUXURY OPTIONS:
Wanaka Luxury Apartments – Spacious, modern apartments with premium finishes and stunning views — great for couples or groups wanting a high-end self-catered stay.
Lakeside Apartments – Premium self-contained apartments right on the water, offering top-tier comfort and beautiful lake views. With a pool and a hot tub.

Check out my other New Zealand posts:

Things to do in New Zealand: the ultimate list
Solo Travel in New Zealand: Campervan Diaries
Franz Josef Helicopter Hike: Is it worth it? And everything you need to know
Visiting Mount Cook/Aoraki, New Zealand: Epic 3 day Adventure Itinerary

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