11 Epic Mount Cook View Locations – The Best Places to See Mount Cook

11 Epic Mount Cook View Locations – The Best Places to See Mount Cook

Want to find out where to see Mount Cook? Aoraki/Mount Cook is New Zealand's highest mountain and its distant peak always dominates the South Island's incredible backdrop. However, there are a few select locations that are the best places to see Mount Cook and capture epic Mount Cook photos.

Aoraki/Mount Cook was recognized for its splendor and beauty by both traditional Maori settlers and European explorers. Because Mount Cook is significant to both parties, the official name was combined to reflect the unified history shared by all New Zealanders.

Even today, people from all over the world flock to catch a glimpse of this imposing 3,724 meter high peak. And no one asks “why”? This mountain is absolutely incredible and one of my personal favorites to photograph in New Zealand.

After exploring the South Island's best hikes and viewpoints, I've put together this list to share some of the best places to see Mount Cook in all its glory.

Where can you see Mount Cook? – Best places to see Mount Cook

Let’s get straight to this list of the best places to see Mount Cook!

Remember that the faces of Mount Cook are visible from inland and from the west coast. To make it easier for you to find the locations, I have included links to each independent article below for a complete guide to each hike and viewpoint on Mount Cook.

1. Hooker Valley route

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Known as one of the most popular hikes in New Zealand, the views from the Hooker Valley Track have to be seen to be believed.

This walk follows the Hooker Valley and takes you to the very edge of Hooker Glacier Lake where Aoraki/Mount Cook looms large.

The best part is that you'll get epic views of Mount Cook the entire length of this hike!

FULL HIKING GUIDE: Hiking the Hooker Valley Track in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

2. Müllerhüttenroute

One of my personal favorite hikes in New Zealand probably also offers the best views of New Zealand's highest peak!

This popular overnight hiking route leads to Mueller Hut, widely considered one of New Zealand's most picturesque mountain huts. Aoraki/Mount Cook and the glacial lakes and valleys below seem to form an epic, constant backdrop throughout the hike.

Tip: Freedom camping or overnighting at Mueller Hut is the best place to see Mount Cook at sunset.
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COMPLETE HIKING GUIDE: Complete guide to hiking the Müllerhütten route

Sealy Tarn's Track

If the Mueller Hut route is too long or too steep for you, I would suggest climbing halfway up to the Sealy Tarns. This trail actually forms the first section of the Müllerhütten hike and therefore offers a very similar view (albeit from a lower point).

The mountain lakes themselves are also a great place to capture the reflections of Mount Cook! Try to come here just after sunrise or just before sunset for the clearest reflection photos.
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FULL GUIDE: Hiking the Sealy Tarns Track in Mount Cook National Park

3. Kea Point Track

Another shorter option for hiking in Aorkai/Mount Cook National Park is the Kea Point Track.

Starting from the main hiking area in the national park, this approximately 1-2 hour hike takes you to an impressive viewpoint with views of Mount Cook and the Mueller Glacier Lake and moraine.

Although the views are arguably more impressive from the steeper hikes, the Kea Point Track is a good option for those short on time!
alt=“HOOKER VALLEY MORAINE GLACIAL LAKE MOUNT COOK NATIONAL PARK, KEA POINT “>

MORE: KEA POINT HIKE IN MOUNT COOK NATIONAL PARK

4. Peters Viewpoint

Ahh, the iconic street photo of Mount Cook. Peter’s Lookout on the road to Mount Cook from Lake Pukaki is arguably the best view of Aoraki you’ll get.

The lookout is perfect for those taking a New Zealand road trip as it is just a simple matter of driving to the lookout car park.

As you drive further up the road there are also more iconic photo opportunities on the Mount Cook road, so get creative!
alt=“ROAD TO MOUNT COOK AT PETER’S LOOKOUT, MOUNT COOK ROAD PHOTO”>

Is it worth going to Mount Cook?

It's definitely worth taking the road from Pukaki to Mount Cook Village. Not only is the road itself incredibly picturesque, it also ends at Mount Cook National Park. This is the area where you need to head for some of New Zealand's best hikes, including the Hooker Valley Track and the Mueller Hut Route.

FULL BLOG POST: Best view of Mount Cook – Peters Lookout on the way to Mount Cook

5. Tasmanian Valley

The Tasman Valley runs from the Aoraki/Mount Cook Range on the other side of the Hooker Valley.

Although the Hooker Valley is much more popular, the Tasman Valley is also one of the best places to see Mount Cook.

Additionally, there are some short hikes that allow visitors to explore New Zealand's largest glacier. the Tasman Glacier!
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RELATED: Tasman Glacier Viewpoint and Blue Lakes Hike

6. Lake Matheson

Located on the west coast of the South Island, Lake Matheson is popular for its perfectly positioned reflections of Mount Cook.

With a short walk around the lake you'll find a wooden viewing platform known as Reflection Island.

From here, Mount Cook is beautifully reflected in the calm waters of the lake. Again, for the clearest reflection photos, be sure to visit during the golden hour, either just after sunrise or just before sunset.
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COMPLETE GUIDE: Complete Guide to Lake Matheson Reflection Lake

7. Fox Glacier Village

As well as the chance to see the Fox Glacier, the village and surrounding countryside also offer great views of the west face of Mount Cook.

If you have a car or RV, I highly recommend heading towards Lake Matheson, just outside of the village. Here you will experience some of the most beautiful landscapes against the backdrop of Mount Cook.
alt=“FOX GLACIER VILLAGE VIEW OF MOUNT COOK AORAKI”>

RELATED: The 6 Best Things to Do in the Catlins on a New Zealand Road Trip

8. Mount Fox route

My personal favorite hike in New Zealand is the Mount Fox Route. This challenging and steep climb to the summit of Mount Fox ends with breathtaking views of Mount Cook and the Fox Glacier.

Similar to Lake Matheson, this location is located on the west coast overlooking Mount Cook. Therefore, it is a good idea to hike to the summit of Mount Fox at sunrise and end the day with a sunset at Lake Matheson.

Tip: For the best chance of clear visibility, head out before sunrise to avoid midday and afternoon fog. Be sure to read the hiking guide to find your way.
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FULL HIKING GUIDE: Hiking the Mount Fox Route

9. Pukaki Lake Viewpoint

New Zealand's most beautiful lake - the turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki are the perfect foreground to complement New Zealand's highest mountain.

The viewpoint at Lake Pukaki is also a large campsite that is completely free for self-catering guests. We stayed here during our recent road trip around the South Island and the sunset views did not disappoint!
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HEADING TO QUEENSTOWN?: 8 BEST HIKES IN QUEENSTOWN

10. Helicopter flight snow landing

Okay, you can't really beat a helicopter ride and snow landing when it comes to epic views. Several helicopter and ski plane companies operate in the South Island. Consequently, they all compete to offer great deals for those who want to see Mount Cook up close.

I would suggest comparing prices and booking online with Klook to get the best deals. To save you time, I have already done the research for you. Under the following link you will find the currently cheapest and best-rated helicopter flight near Mount Cook online in May 2020.

If you read this a little later, I would suggest comparing other options with Klook or Viator.
alt=“FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER FROM ROBERT’S POINT TRACK”>

BEST DEAL: Mount Cook Helicopter Flight and Snow Landing

11. Twizel to Pukaki Road

Another great place to see Mount Cook from the road is the road from Twizel, SH8 (Tekapo-Twizel Road). I have walked this road several times during my visits to New Zealand and each time the view has blown me away.

On the other hand, the cloud cover spoils the view in the afternoon. For the best street view, I would suggest driving here early in the morning.
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Camping and accommodation near Mount Cook Village

By far the best place to stay in Mount Cook National Park is the White Horse Hill Campsite.

There are 60 unpowered pitches here and you'll need to arrive early in peak season to secure a spot. It is not possible to book online as it operates on a first come, first served basis.

Fees are $15 per night per person.

Alternatively, those who prefer a room or hotel can stay in nearby Mount Cook Village. Popular options include the famous Alpine Lodge and Mt. Cook Lodge.

More activities on New Zealand's South Island

I hope you enjoyed this quick guide to the best places to see Mount Cook (Aoraki). If you want to do more besides enjoying the epic views of Mount Cook, check out the list of free guides and blogs below.

If you enjoy hiking, I recommend starting with the Complete Guide to the Best Hikes in Mount Cook National Park or this Guide to the 31 Best Hikes in South Island New Zealand.

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• Spiegellose Kamera: Canon R5
• Drohne: DJI Mavic Pro 2
• 360-Grad-Action-Kamera: Insta360 One X2
• Landschaftsobjektiv: Canon RF 15-35 mm f/2.8L
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• Lieblingsfotozubehör: Peak Design Capture Clip

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