The Hooker Valley Track is undisputed one of the prettiest day hikes we’ve ever done that you could walk in flip-flops, which two young girls actually did, and for this reason was well frequented by New Zealand standards.

We bounced along three swing bridges that crossed the Hooker River turned milky grey by glacial run-off as the path meandered further up into the Hooker Valley through the wide valley floor covered by tussocks and scruffy grass.

All along, views of Mount Cook were preparing us for the spectacular panorama at the end of the trail, of Hooker Lake and Glacier to the backdrop of its mighty snow-capped peak. Heading back down the valley we faced the Sealy Range that we descended just that very morning after spending a night at Mueller Hut.

The Hooker Valley Track is posted as 3 hours return but excluding the short break at the Hooker Lake lookout, it took us 2:20 hours and we were in no rush. The track is well maintained and without noticeable elevation, thus perfect also for running, before and after the tourist crowds descend.