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A short comfortable trail with great views of Mount Cook.


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Map Key

2.2

Miles

3.5

KM

Point to Point

428' 131 m

High

295' 90 m

Low

356' 109 m

Up

334' 102 m

Down

6%

Avg Grade (3°)

26%

Max Grade (15°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Lake · River/Creek · Views · Wildlife

Family Friendly Flat, easy trail.

Description

The hills and trees rise high around Lake Matheson and shelter the lake from the typical winds. The lack of wind along with the nature of the dark, tannin-rich waters allows for a great reflective surface and beautiful photographs. The viewpoint is only a half mile into the trail and most turn back there, but you shouldn't miss this peak at the coastal rain forest. Circumnavigate the lake through the forest and then turn back toward the visitor center.

Flora & Fauna

The coniferous large specimens of the kahikatea and rimu trees and giant fern species. You may also spot the New Zealand pigeon and more birds as well.

Contacts

Shared By:

Russell Hobart

Trail Ratings

  4.3 from 3 votes

#10521

Overall
  4.3 from 3 votes
5 Star
33%
4 Star
67%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Trail Rankings

#103

in New Zealand

#10,521

Overall
2 Views Last Month
421 Since Apr 9, 2017
Easy/Intermediate Easy/Intermediate

50%
0%
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Photos

Lake Matheson, the Mirror Lake, is spectacular from the trail.
Apr 19, 2017 near Mount C…, NZ
Double view of Mount Cook.
Apr 9, 2017 near Mount C…, NZ
a different color from sunset on the lake
Sep 19, 2018 near Mount C…, NZ
Boardwalk at Lake Matheson.
Apr 10, 2017 near Mount C…, NZ
The sun sets over the beginning of the trail on the swing bridge.
Apr 19, 2017 near Mount C…, NZ

0 Comments

Current Trail Conditions

All Clear 47 days ago
Add Your Check-In

Check-Ins

Jan 31, 2020
Bram Dispa
Mar 6, 2019
Emily Nichols
3.5mi — 1h 00m
Mar 28, 2018
Chuan Min
Mar 17, 2018
Philipp Legner
Feb 9, 2018
Grace You
Aug 20, 2017
Kate Meyers
Nov 15, 2016
Eduardo De La Cruz Jr.
Beautiful trail. If you want to get the best picture of the mountains on the lake make sure to wait until right after sunset when the winds die.
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