Grandview Mountain Track: Walking Guide, Time & Access

Route overview

Trampers are well rewarded for their effort from the upper sections of the greater Grandview Range with inspiring views over Lakes Hāwea and Wānaka and mountains beyond.

This DOC directory entry covers Grandview Mountain Track in Otago, within Lake Hāwea township area. Where DOC groups several walks, times and grades refer to the listed options rather than a single continuous itinerary.

Distance, time and grade

• Distance: 18 km return via same track
• Walking time: 4 - 6 hr return
• DOC grade: Advanced

Access and alerts

Source checked 2026-10-08. This page is a dated snapshot, not a live track-status report. Check current DOC route information immediately before travelling. An absence of listed alerts does not establish that a route is open.

• Grandview Mountain Track closed for lambing 5 October to 16 November; First published on 2 October 2026.

Seasonal restrictions

The track is closed for lambing from 5 October to 16 November inclusive. The Nook Road gate to the carpark will be locked during this time.

Dog access

No dogs. Other pets on conservation land rules.

Description

Nook Road car park – Grandview Mountain

Time: 4 to 6 hrDistance: 18 km

The Grandview Mountain Track (previously known as Grandview Creek Track) gives access to the vast Grandview Range.

Pockets of kānuka shrubland merge with the pastoral land on the lower section of the track before opening up to the tussockland that dominates the tops.

Climbing steadily the track passes several small remnant beech forests on the opposite side of the creek, before reaching the station boundary at 1260 m then Grandview Mountain at 1398 m; an elevation gain of 958 m from the car park.

Trampers are rewarded with stunning panoramic views over Lake Hāwea, the pastoral flats through to Lake Wānaka and local peaks. On a clear day, Mt Aspiring/Tititea’s distinct profile can be seen on the horizon.

A marked route leading from the track drops into the Grandview Creek giving access to the conservation area that bears its name. Continued travel into the conservation area becomes restricted by steep bluffs.

Grandview Mountain Track – Breast Hill-Timaru Creek Track (Nook Road car park to Timaru Creek Road near Gladstone)

Time: 9 to 12 hrDistance: 26 km

This tramp combines Grandview Mountain Track and Grandview Ridge Track with Breast Hill Track for a full day or overnight option.

Mountain biking

Mountain bikers can travel to Pakituhi Hut but cannot exit via the Breast Hill Track.

Horse riding

This is a shared us track, be aware of cyclists and other people usig this track.

Getting there

Track entrance is signposted at carpark at the end of Nook Rd, approx 6 km east from the Lake Hāwea Township.

Know before you go

• The access track crosses Lake Hāwea Station, a working high country station. Respect livestock and property, remain on the marked track, and use the stiles where provided.

• Dogs and guns are not permitted on this access track.

• In summer, very hot and dry conditions are common so make sure you carry plenty of water and have adequate protection against the sun.

• Alpine conditions may be experienced at any time of the year, with the higher country being subject to snow during the winter months. Ensure you carry suitable clothing and sturdy boots. Be prepared.

• 1:50 000 topographical map CA 13 Lake Hāwea is recommended.

Sources and reuse

Route descriptions and practical information reproduced from the Department of Conservation, Crown copyright, under CC BY 4.0, subject to DOC's copyright policy. Formatting has been adapted, including flattening page sections; follow the original DOC page for maps, section-specific layout, current notices and linked documents. Outdoor Next is independent and is not endorsed by DOC.

The accompanying photograph is a licensed general hiking illustration, not a photograph of this route.