Glencoe Walk

It is a well-paved, straight-forward walk that starts off flat but quickly turns into a steep climb with steps. While the Department of Conversation classifies it as easy, it is no walk in the park. However, it is well worth the climb for the stunning views at the top. 

Once you start the walk, you will quickly find yourself surrounded by the totara trees that are native to New Zealand. You will be fully immersed in this dense forest as you make your way up the walk. When you emerge from it and go slightly beyond the water tanks at the top, the forest will open before you to reveal the mountains and the valley. The sun sets beautifully on the mountains on a clear that. This viewpoint is a great place to watch Aoraki turn from white to pink. 

While the walk officially starts behind the Hermitage Hotel, you can extend the walk slightly by starting under the Bowen Road bridge, where the Glencoe stream runs. Simply follow the stream upwards.