About the track

• Panoramic views of Lake Wānaka and the Southern Alps/Kā Tiritiri o te Moana
• Steep climb with over 1,200m elevation gain, high fitness needed
• Popular track that can be crowded

The track starts at Roys Peak car park, on Wānaka – Mount Aspiring Road.

Follow the track as it zig-zags steeply up the side of Roys Peak. It passes through farmland then tussock. Stay on the marked track as most of the track is through private land.

Roys Peak Track ends at the summit of Roys Peak, at 1,578 metres elevation.

The famous Roys Peak photo viewpoints are roughly 30 minutes before the summit.

From the summit, return back the way you came. Alternatively, experienced trampers can continue onto the more challenging Skyline Track.

Guided hiking

Guided hikes of Roys Peak Track are available. Find options online or contact the Wānaka isite.

Nearby alternative

During the Roys Peak Track lambing closure, Isthmus Peak Track is an excellent alternative. It is a similar length and difficulty to Roys Peak Track, is less busy and has equally spectacular views.

Roys Peak Track virtual guide

Watch a NZ Mountain Safety Council video.

Driving

From Wānaka, drive west along the Wānaka – Mount Aspiring Road for about 6 km until you reach the large Roys Peak car park on your left.

Open in Google Maps

Parking

Free parking for cars and campervans.

Roys Peak car park gets very busy and there may not be parking spaces available. Do not park on the edge of the road.

Walking and cycling

You can walk or cycle to the Roys Peak Track entrance from Wānaka, using Waterfall Creek Track, Glendhu Bay Track and a section of road. These tracks are not managed by DOC.

Shuttles and taxis

Transport providers are available. Find options online or contact the Wānaka isite.

When to go

Know what to expect in different seasons:

• Summer: The track can be very hot in summer, with no shade or water. We recommend bringing plenty of water and sun protection, and avoiding hiking during the hottest part of the day.
• Autumn: Weather in autumn is very variable. It can be very hot but there can also be cold temperatures and snow.
• Winter: Snow and ice in winter make the track much more difficult. See more information below.
• Spring: Winter conditions can continue into spring, especially frozen ground and cold temperatures. Roys Peak Track is closed from 1 October to 10 November.

Head torches, spare batteries and very warm clothes are essential if attempting to hike in the dark.
Image: Kinisi Running | © 

The safest time of day to hike Roys Peak is during daylight hours. If attempting the track in the dark, head torches, spare batteries and very warm clothes are essential. Do not rely on a phone torch.

The upper parts of Roys Peak Track are in an alpine area. Prepare for sudden weather changes, rain, snow and cold temperatures at any time of year. Check the forecast and change your plans if needed.

View weather forecast

What to take

• Warm layers and a waterproof and windproof raincoat
• Sun protection – sunblock, protective layers, sunglasses and a sunhat – as there is no shade on the track
• Plenty of drinking water, as there is no water along the track
• Sturdy hiking footwear with good grip
• Food
• Torch or head torch
• Fully charged mobile phone
• Everything else on the Day hikes gear list

Roys Peak Track in winter

In winter and early spring, Roys Peak Track can have snow and ice. Daylight hours are short and the track is often muddy and slippery.

Depending on conditions, you may need micro-spikes and walking poles, in addition to sturdy hiking shoes. Contact the Tititea/Mt Aspiring National Park Visitor Centre for the latest track conditions.

Roys Peak Track has challenging avalanche terrain above 1, 000 metres. Find out more about this on the New Zealand Avalanche Advisory website or check with the Tititea/Mt Aspiring National Park Visitor Centre.

Plan your visit

• There are two toilets on Roys Peak Track. They are located at the car park and near the photo viewpoint around 30 minutes before the Roys Peak summit.
• This track crosses private land. Respect the landowner's livestock and property by staying on the marked track, giving livestock space, leaving gates as you find them and using stiles where provided.
• Campfires are not allowed. Gas camp cookers are allowed in the Stack Conservation Area, but choose a site that is clear of flammable materials. No fires allowed on the private land.
• Mountain bikes are not allowed on the track.

No drones

Flying a drone without a permit is strictly prohibited.

Drone use on conservation land