Planning a road trip from Queenstown to Mount Cook? Excellent choice! This drive not only connects two stunning destinations but also showcases New Zealand’s natural beauty in a way that not many other drives do.
A road trip from Queenstown to Mount Cook is something that should be added to every Queenstown itinerary. There are actually two routes you can drive between Queenstown and Mount Cook and both are pretty similar length-wise. The first and slightly shorter option takes you via Cromwell, while the second option (and the one we recommend) takes you via Cardrona and Wanaka.
This drive will take over 4 hours (it’s 261 km each-way!), without stops but we definitely don’t advise not making any stops. As there’s so much to see along the way! Therefore, it makes sense to spend a few nights along the way (we recommend Wanaka, Twizel and Mount Cook Village).
So, let’s get started shall we?
Summary of the road trip from Queenstown to Mount Cook:
Driving from Queenstown to Mount Cook involves a road trip through some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking landscapes, offering a mix of stunning alpine scenery, turquoise lakes, and charming towns. There are two ways to drive to Mount Cook from Queenstown – the fastest route (it’s around 260 km long) takes you via Cromwell and along State Highway 6 to the Lindis Pass.
But, the route we actually advise taking is the slightly longer route via the Crown Range and Wanaka to the Lindis Pass. This route is 272 km long and is a more challenging drive as the Crown Range is the highest main road in the country. But, by going this way you get to see Cardrona and Wanaka – two of my favorite spots on the South Island.
Continuing on, the route takes you through the Lindis Pass, where you’ll be treated to striking views of tussock-covered hills. After the pass, you’ll come to Omarama and Twizel. As you near Mount Cook, the road hugs the edge of the turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki, offering a stunning view of the Southern Alps and Aoraki/Mount Cook in the distance.
Be sure to check road conditions and weather forecasts before setting off, as alpine weather (particularly in the Crown Ranges and along the Lindis Pass) can be unpredictable. Also worth noting that it’s a popular campervan road trip in New Zealand, so, if you get stuck behind one only overtake when it’s safe to do so.
Related Read: I’ve just finished putting together this detailed guide to driving the Southern Scenic Route which connects Queenstown with Dunedin!
BEST Stops on the Drive from Queenstown to Mount Cook
Start your road trip from Queenstown in the charming town of Arrowtown, where you can stroll along quaint streets and soak up a bit of gold mining history. It’s like stepping back in time!
Next, make your way to Wanaka, where you can relax by the lake, go on a hike or indulge in some wine tasting. After that, head for the Lindis Pass and Twizel – the scenery in these places reminds me of Lord of the Rings.
As you near Mount Cook, prepare to be mesmerized by the breathtaking views of Lake Pukaki. Its stunning turquoise waters are a photographer’s dream and a perfect spot to soak in the beauty of nature.
Top Tip: If you’re going to rent a car in New Zealand, we highly recommend Discover Cars. We tend to always book our rental car through Discover Cars when we’re traveling. It is a search engine for rental cars and allows you to filter by price if you’re on a budget or by vehicle type if there’s a specific car you’re after.
1. Arrowtown
Arrowtown is a cute, picture-perfect town about a 20-minute drive from Queenstown. While herem be sure to take a walk along the town’s main street – Buckingham Street. It looks like something from a movie set and many of the storefronts here have been maintained from the town’s gold rush days.
You see, Arrowtown was at the center of the mining boom in the South Island in the late 1800s, and its mining past is evident on a stroll around town. First, you have the Chinese Settlement built along the banks of the Arrow River, this is where Chinese miners lived at the height of the boom. In pretty bad conditions!
You can even go panning for gold in the Arrow River, which is a family-favorite Arrowtown activity!
There’s also lots of great Cafes in Arrowtown if you need a caffeine fix, we love Provisions on Buckingham Street.
Related Read: If you have 5 days in Queenstown or longer, be sure to spend a full day in Arrowtown – there’s heaps to do here from scenic hikes and bike trails to dining at great restaurants.
2. Crown Range Lookout
The Crown Range Road is the highest main road in New Zealand, and this lookout (at its highest point) is a must-stop when driving to Mount Cook. From this lookout, you can look over the rugged mountain ranges, lush valleys, and, in the right season, snow-capped peaks that define the region’s dramatic beauty. The ever-changing weather conditions up this high leads to dynamic skies and lighting – making it a popular stop-off for photographers.
The road connects Queenstown to Wanaka, and the scenic route which is around 45 minutes long is both thrilling and awe-inspiring. It’s quite steep and narrow in sections, so you will need to have your wits about you on this drive. In winter, it may be icy in parts and so winter tires are needed.
3. Cardrona
Located at the end of the Crown Range Road, about a 45 minute drive from Queenstown is the teeny-tiny town of Cardrona, which is a popular Queenstown ski resort in the winter months.
The Cardrona Hotel, one of the oldest bars in New Zealand is located here. And we recommend stopping in here for food after the white-knuckle drive over the Crown Ranges. It’s a great spot for an alfresco lunch on a sunny day as the Cardrona Hotel has a huge beer garden.
Just down the road from here, there’s a slightly weird and quirky tourist attraction called ‘Bradrona’ Which as you may guess, from the name – is a fence lined with hundreds (if not thousands) of bras left there by passing tourists.
4. Wanaka
Nestled at Lake Wanaka’s stunning southern end, Wanaka town is a fabulous place to visit as it has Mount Aspiring National Park and the Southern Alps in close proximity to it.
Despite being relatively close to Queenstown, Wanaka has a very different vibe to it. Many people go there because of its buzzy Cafe scene. We really like Big Fig Wanaka for our coffee fix. Additionally, it is a good spot for hiking (the famed Roy’s Peak Track is located here) and it’s home to the iconic Wanaka Tree (we’ve all seen a photo of it!)
Wanaka also has its fair share of water and other adventure sports activities like jetskiing, SUP’ing and kayaking. So, it’s similar to Queenstown in that regard. You can also go wine tasting here – we went to Rippon Winery and really enjoyed it. The views are epic and the wine is great, too!
Where to stay in Wanaka:
We recommend spending a night in Wanaka to break up the drive, we love staying at the Bella Vista Wanaka Motel – just outside the town center. This 4-star property is a short walk from the lake and offers free parking and comfortable, clean rooms. A double room here averages $175 NZD per night.
5. Lindis Pass
Renowned for its stunning scenery and dramatic landscapes but also as a vital transport link between the Central Otago and Mackenzie Basin regions. The Lindis Pass traverses the Southern Alps and reaches an elevation of 971 meters (3,186 feet), providing breathtaking views of tussock-covered hills and expansive valleys.
The pass is 63 km long and I have to say, it’s not the easiest road to drive as it’s quite steep and winding in parts.
During winter, the area often experiences snowfall, adding to its beauty and making it a favorite spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts. So, if you do plan to drive through here in the winter be sure to drive carefully, as the road can be treacherous in sections due to ice and snow.
As for the best photo spot on this road, at the highest point you’ll see a ‘Lookout’ sign. There’s a small car park there and it’s a short walk to the lookout from where you park your car.
6. Hot Tubs Omarama
At the end of the Lindis Pass, you’ll come to the tiny town of Omarama which has a small supermarket and a few restaurants. One of the best parts about visiting this charming town is undoubtedly the chance to relax in the natural hot tubs here.
Imagine soaking in warm, pure mountain water while surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the mountains and valleys! It’s the ultimate way to unwind after a day of driving. The Hot Tubs Omarama is a wonderful way to connect with nature and treat yourself! Prices start from $100 NZD per person for a 90-minute session.
A worthy coffee pitstop here is the Pink Glider Cafe, which is tucked away down next to the airport in Omarama. Sit outside and watch the small planes take off and land. When the planes aren’t taking off, it is gorgeously quiet. The service is super-friendly and food-wise there are lots of hot and cold selections. Great coffee too of course. In fact, I’d say it’s one of the best coffee shops on the South Island!
7. Twizel
Twizel is a bit of a hidden gem nestled in the stunning Mackenzie Basin. And it’s just over a 20 minute drive from your previous stop, Omarama. The town started out in 1968 as a temporary home for workers on the Upper Waitaki Power Development Project and has now blossomed into a beloved spot for tourists in-the-know.
The scenery here is simply breathtaking, with the majestic Southern Alps and the sparkling turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki creating a picturesque backdrop that’s hard to beat. One of the unique features of Twizel is its incredible night sky. As part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, it’s a paradise for stargazers looking to soak in the beauty of the night sky.
Twizel is also a popular spot with Lord of the Rings fans as the Battle Of Pelennor Fields scene in The Return Of The King was shot in nearby Ben Ohau Station. However, you can only visit here on a guided tour (you can book it through your hotel or at the tourist office in Twizel).
For those who love the great outdoors, Twizel is heaven! Yup, whether you’re into hiking, cycling, fishing, or hitting the slopes during winter, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Twizel.
Where to stay in Twizel:
We recommend spending a night in Twizel before hitting the road to Mount Cook tomorrow. We stayed at and loved The Lakes Motel as the rooms are modern and spacious. That night we had dinner in Ministry of Works and the food was delicious and the service super-friendly.
8. Lake Tekapo (Optional Detour)
From Twizel you can opt to head to Lake Tekapo, which is a slight detour but at only 45 minutes each-way, it’s well worth it. You will pass Lake Pukaki (your next stop) along the drive but just drive by for now and explore on your return journey – that’s my advice.
Lake Tekapo is like a painting, the lake here is known as the bluest in the country and it’s also backdropped by the snowcapped peaks of Mount Cook National Park. Plus, if you visit in lupin season (mid-November to January) you’re in for a real treat as the shoreline is full of these pink and purple flowers (well, they’re actually weeds but that’s a story for another day!)
The region is renowned for its stargazing, as it forms part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, one of the best places in the world to observe the night sky. One of the must-see attractions here is the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, a charming stone chapel that sits at the edge of the lake.
If you have time, hike the Mount John Summit Hike – which will take around 1.5 hours. There’s a great Cafe at the summit here – the Astro Cafe, which boasts an excellent view of Mount Cook and the other stunning scenery of the Mackenzie region. Or you could spend an hour or two relaxing in the gorgeous Tekapo Springs – an outdoor spa of sorts that has 3 hot pools as well as a sauna, steamroom, etc.
9. Lake Pukaki
Possibly the most eye-catching spot on this list, Lake Pukaki is just 20 minutes from Twizel (or 45 minutes from Tekapo, if you added that on). The lake actually provides one of the best viewpoints of Mount Cook on a clear day.
This glacial lake owes its striking color to finely ground rock particles, or “glacial flour,” suspended in the water, reflecting the blue spectrum of sunlight. The lake is especially beautiful in lupin season (from late November to January).
For those who love to get out in nature, the area is packed with amazing hiking trails, like the Tasman Glacier View Track, where you can soak up panoramic views that will take your breath away. And if cycling is more your thing, the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail runs right alongside the lake.
Fishing enthusiasts will be delighted, too, as the lake is home to plenty of salmon and trout. And if you’re looking for a more laid-back experience, why not pack a picnic? And enjoy it next to the lake while admiring the view!
10. Peters Lookout
After Lake Pukaki, it’s time to drive along the very scenic (and winding) Mount Cook Road which leads to Mount Cook Village.
The best photo spot along this route though is very close to Mount Cook – it’s called Peter’s Lookout. You can see both Mount Cook and Lake Pukaki from here. There’s a car park on the right hand side as you drive into Mount Cook village, so you can safely pull off the road.
11. Mount Cook
And you’ve reached the final stop on your road trip from Queenstown to Mount Cook – the mighty Mount Cook. And what a place it is! You should definitely spend a night or two here so that you can go on a few hikes and maybe even hop on a scenic flight if your budget allows.
My favorite thing to do in Mt Cook is to walk the Hooker Valley Track, which is rated as easy and will take most people 3-hours to complete (return that is!) The trail boasts breathtaking views of glaciers, rivers, and the iconic Mount Cook itself.
There are tougher hikes here like the Sealy Tarns Track and the Mueller Hut Track if you’re keen for a challenge.
If you’re keen for something a little different, why not, consider a guided glacier tour or a scenic helicopter ride of Mount Cook and the glaciers to experience the majestic landscape from above. It’s just under an hour-long tour and includes a landing on a glacier, so cool!
Stargazing is another highlight here, as Mount Cook lies within the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve. An area that offers some of the clearest night skies in the world. Lastly, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, which provides insight into the history of the region and the legendary mountaineer himself.
Where to stay in Mount Cook:
We spent two nights in The Hermitage Hotel, which is one of the most famous hotels on the South Island. It’s HUGE – with 164 rooms and the views from here are honestly unbeatable. There’s a Cafe and bar/restaurant on-site, from which the views are insane!
FAQ’s about the road trip from Queenstown to Mount Cook:
Driving from Queenstown to Mount Cook is a popular route for travelers exploring New Zealand’s South Island. Below I’ve answered some frequently asked questions about this journey:
- What is the best route to take? The most scenic and commonly traveled route is via the Crown Ranges and State Highway 8, passing through towns like Wanaka and Twizel, with stunning views of Lake Pukaki and the Southern Alps. There is also a slightly shorter route that you can take via Cromwell which is 261 km long.
- Are there any must-see stops along the way? Yes, there are several notable stops, including the quaint, historic town of Arrowtown, the Lindis Pass with its breathtaking landscapes, and Lake Pukaki, which offers spectacular views of Mount Cook on a clear day.
- What should I be aware of regarding road conditions? The roads are generally well-maintained, but it’s important to check weather conditions before traveling, especially in winter, as snow and ice can affect driving.
- Is there fuel available along the route? Yes, fuel is available in towns like Wanaka, Omarama, and Twizel, but it’s a good idea to fill up your tank before leaving Queenstown for peace of mind.
Thanks for reading my blog!
It’s easy to see why driving from Queenstown to Mount Cook is one of the best and most popular things to do in New Zealand. I mean, not only are there lots of amazing activities to enjoy but there are scenic mountain views and turquoise-blue lakes on pretty much every turn!
Thanks so much for reading. I hope this guide has helped you plan the perfect road trip from Queenstown to Mount Cook! If you found this blog helpful, be sure to browse around some more!
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Last Updated on February 26, 2025 by snaphappytravel