This small lakeside settlement near the Southern Alps draws adventurers to its hiking trails and ski fields. A gateway to Milford Sound, with local fishing spots and mountain bike paths.
Glenorchy, a village of 500 residents, sits on Lake Wakatipu's northern shores, 46 kilometers from Queenstown. You can start the Routeburn Track here, walk through the beech forests where The Lord of the Rings was filmed, or take a jet boat ride on the glacier-fed Dart River. The village serves as a gateway to Mount Aspiring National Park, with its alpine passes and mountain lakes.
Getting to Glenorchy
The 46-kilometer drive from Queenstown takes 45 minutes along Lake Wakatipu's edge. Many travelers stop at Bennetts Bluff Lookout for views of the mountain ranges. There's no public bus service, but tour companies run daily shuttles to hiking trailheads. In winter, check weather reports before departing as road conditions can become icy.
Hiking the Routeburn Track
The Routeburn Track runs 32 kilometers through the Southern Alps, crossing mountain passes and passing alpine lakes. You'll find Department of Conservation huts along the route - book these in advance. Most hikers complete the track in 3-4 days, walking between Mount Aspiring National Park and Fiordland National Park. From June to October, you need advanced alpine skills due to avalanche risk.
Film Location Experiences
Peter Jackson filmed scenes for The Lord of the Rings in Glenorchy's beech forests, transforming them into Isengard and Lothlorien. The Paradise area, 20 kilometers north, became the forest scenes in The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe. Local guides lead walking tours to these locations, sharing details about the filming process and local flora.
Water Adventures on Dart River
The Dart River runs from Mount Aspiring National Park's glaciers. Jet boats speed upstream through gorges and braided river channels. For a calmer experience, kayak guides lead trips along the river's quieter sections and side streams. Pack warm layers regardless of season - the water stays cold year-round.
Paradise and Diamond Lake
Mountains reflect in Diamond Lake's surface at Paradise, where walking tracks lead through beech forest to Dart Valley and Mount Earnslaw viewpoints. You can stay in 1880s pioneer cottages, restored and maintained by the Paradise Trust.
Safety and Practical Information
Alpine weather changes quickly here. Pack rain gear and warm clothing for all walks, even short ones. Mobile phones work only in Glenorchy village - rent a personal locator beacon for backcountry trips. The general store sells food, drinks, and basic camping supplies. For specialized hiking equipment, shop in Queenstown.
