Image: Shellie Evans | ©
The Remarkables mountain range.
Remarkables Conservation Area

Located in the Otago region

Enjoy high altitude walks in the Remarkables. It's an extremely steep, rugged mountain range that extends to 2,234 m and is a prominent part of the quintessential Queenstown landscape.

The area contains a number of beautiful features, such as Lake Alta, a small lake nestled within a natural amphitheatre at the head of a glacial valley (a ‘cirque’) and below the towering Double Cone peaks.

Glacial tarns, schist outcrops and bluffs, waterfalls, unique flora and fauna, recreation opportunities and spectacular views over Lake Wakatipu draw large numbers of visitors to this special area.

The Remarkables Conservation Area is accessed from several points near Frankton and Gibbston in the Queenstown area.

Be ready for an alpine environment

The Remarkables Conservation Area is high up – this means it is often very cold. High winds and snow are common. Make sure you have lots of warm layers and a waterproof raincoat, even in summer.

Find packing lists here

Check the forecast here

There is deep snow in winter

Many tracks in the Remarkables Conservation Area are covered with deep snow in winter. They are very challenging unless you have the right gear and skills.

There is avalanche danger in winter in many areas. Check the Avalanche Advisory and make sure you have the skills and equipment for the avalanche conditions.

These walks are all good winter options near the Remarkables, without snow and with great scenery: Jack’s Point Track, Lake Hayes Walkway, Bannockburn Sluicings, Mt Crichton Loop Track.