Activities in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
Tracks and walks
There are 10 short or day walks around Aoraki/Mount Cook Village and into the main valleys. The most popular are to Kea Point and the Hooker Valley.
For more experienced trampers there are 3 alpine routes; over the Mueller, Copland and Ball Passes.
These short walks in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park are suitable for people of all ages and abilities.
There are several walks around the village that provide views of Aoraki/Mount Cook and the surrounding native alpine bush and area.
There are two day tramps in the Aoraki/Mount Cook area: the Ball Flat in the Tasman valley, and the Sealy Tarns track off the Kea Point Walk above the village.
The Tasman Glacier, 29 km long and up to 3 km wide can be viewed from the short walks that start from the Blue Lakes Shelter.
At 1800 metres on the Sealy Range (nearly half as high as Aoraki/Mount Cook’s summit), the Mueller Hut provides a 360-degree panorama encompassing glaciers, ice cliffs, vertical rock faces and New Zealand’s highest peaks.
Ball Pass Crossing is a demanding two to three-day alpine route, crossing the Mount Cook Range between the Hooker and Tasman Valleys.
Other activities
Skiing
Guided ski trips, suitable for intermediate skiers, can be taken down the Tasman Glacier.
Helicopters can take experienced skiers to a number of locations in the park for some wilderness experiences.
Ski touring is possible around the Tasman and Kelman huts. Alpine experience is required.
Mountaineering
Aoraki/Mount Cook and the other high peaks attract mountaineers from around the world. They should only be attempted by experienced climbers/ mountaineers.
Scenic flights
Regular scenic flights leave from Aoraki/Mount Cook airport.
Mountain biking
The Tasman Glacier Road
Grade 1
Distance: 10-15 km
Time: 2 hr
Mountain biking is usually only permitted on formed roads within national parks. Opportunities therefore are limited, but some unsealed access roads can provide a scenic and pleasant ride.The Tasman Glacier Road from Mount Cook Village up as far as Celmisia Flat provides a great trip.
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