The Richmond Trail starts and finishes at two different places

The official start of the Richmond Trail is actually a 3km walk from the carpark at the bottom of the Roundhill Access Rd. At the turn off for the Roundhill ski area, you will find a car park. Walk uphill until you find the sign for Richmond Trail. After 3 km uphill, you will reach a gate. From this gate, it is another 3 km to the DOC sign for the Richmond Trail, which will be on your right.

From this point, the track is undulating hills, though nothing like the initial steep ascent, before you finally head back down the marked track above Boundary Stream. This track will lead you back to Lilybank Road.

Throughout this walk, you will be walking along an old glacial terrace. As a result, you will walk through tussocks and other native vegetation. Due to this low-lying vegetation and the altitude of the walk, you will be able to witness incredible views of Lake Tekapo and the surrounding mountains.

This is a one way walk so you will need to either arrange a pick up at the end of the walk or make your way back 10 km along the road to your starting point at the car park.

Richmond Trail Walk Tekapo
Richmond Trail Walk Tekapo

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: 4-5 hour walk
  • Distance: 13 km
  • Difficulty: Medium
  • Bikes allowed: This is a shared mountain bike track.
  • Route: One way
  • Elevation: 520 m
  • Toilets: No
  • Dogs: Yes, under control
  • Mobile Coverage: Yes, very good

Summary points about this walk

Walk Highlights

The track offers stunning views of the blue water of Lake Tekapo and the surrounding mountains, all while walking along an old glacial terrace.

Track Quality

The first 3 km from the DOC signed start of the walk is a steep ascent. The rest of the track. is undulating until the steep descent near Boundary Stream. This track is also a shared mountain bike track.

Transport

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

Water

Drinking water is available in Lake Tekapo township.

Driving Instructions

Lake Tekapo township is along SH8, about 3 hours from Queenstown or Christchurch. This track is on the eastern shores of Lake Tekapo. Turn off SH8 at Tekapo onto Lilybank Road which is a gravel road.

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 Lake Tekapo walks