This is the shorter walk to the summit of Mt John, not the big loop track

Starting from the Tekapo Hot Springs, follow the signs for the Mt John Summit Circuit Track which will lead you into a mixed forest. The ascent through the forest is gradual though steep. 

You will exit the forest after 45 minutes and find yourself in an open tussock grassland field. From this point, the track still continues uphill. Along the way, you will come across a gate which you will have to open and close.

At the top of the hill, you will reach a junction: continue right to follow the track for South Summit. The left side of the track leads to the Astro Café. 

The South Summit track allows you to walk around the summit of Mount John in order to truly experience 360 degree views of the Mackenzie basin, the stunning Lake Tekapo and the snow-capped mountains in the distance.

On the South Summit track, you will find a bench where you can sit and take in the views. You will also find an information panel naming the surrounding mountains.

The forest can be cold in the autumn and winter and the grassland is completely exposed to the elements, so it is best to come equipped for any weather.

Views from the summit of Mt John Walkway
Views from the summit of Mt John Walkway

Enjoy the Tekapo hot pools after your walk

Especially wonderful in winter, but any time of the year is good, finish off your hike or walk in Tekapo with a soak in the hot springs. If you don’t mind what time you go you can get cheaper entry tickets to the hot pools on this link.  The pools are open every day except Christmas day. There is a great day spa and cafe, bar to enjoy as well. The hot pools overlook stunning Lake Tekapo.

Quick Facts about this walk

  • Location: Lake Tekapo, South Island, New Zealand
  • Time needed: 1.5 hour walk
  • Distance: 3 km
  • Difficulty: Medium
  • Bikes allowed: On 4×4 track on lakeshore only.
  • Route: Return
  • Elevation: 311 m
  • Wet Feet: No
  • Toilets: There are toilets in Lake Tekapo township and at the cafe at the summit.
  • Dogs: On a lead only
  • Mobile Coverage: Yes, very good
Views from the summit of Mt John Walkway (1)

Summary points about this walk

Walk Highlights

The track offers stunning views of the blue water of Lake Tekapo and the surrounding mountains.

Track Quality

The track is mostly gravelled.

Transport

Lake Tekapo township is a stop on InterCity’s bus network.

Water

Drinking water is available in Lake Tekapo township and at the cafe at the summit.

Driving Instructions

Lake Tekapo township is along SH8, about 3 hours from Queenstown or Christchurch. The walk starts at Tekapo Springs, where there is a car park.

Shops & Restaurants Nearby

There are shops and restaurants in Lake Tekapo Township.

Area & Trail History

Lake Tekapo was once covered by glaciers. As the glacier moved, it dumped large amounts of terminal moraine eventually resulting in the damming of the valley causing. The valley filled with water and formed the lake.

Map Location

See more of my walks in Lake Tekapo

You can do the big Mt John Walkway Circuit

This is a much bigger walk of 8.5 km. Instead of completing the loop at the summit of Mt John, you go about half way and turn off towards the lookout point.

Then you’ll follow the foreshore of Lake Tekapo all the way back to the Tekapo Hot Springs. This walk is the Mt John via Lakeshore Walk