Running in Wānaka
Here for summer? Lucky you.
These are the runs our crew keeps going back to, from a flat river loop to a proper mountain day. Pop into the shop before you head out and we'll help you pick the right one for your legs and the weather, sort any gear you're missing, and the coffee's on.
Five runs we keep going back to
Rocky Mountain
Short, steep and a huge view for the effortPast Diamond Lake, up through the trees and out onto a summit looking up the lake towards the mountains. Perfect when you want a big view without a whole day on your feet.
18 km from Wānaka on the Mount Aspiring Road. Steep and slippery in places, with drop-offs near the top, so go steady on the way down.
Breast Hill
The big climb above Lake HāweaStraight up from the lake to Pakituhi Hut, then along the ridge to Breast Hill for one of the best views in the area, Lake Hāwea one way and the mountains the other. Legs will know about it.
No water once you leave the road and it's hot and exposed in summer, so carry plenty. Part of Te Araroa, so expect a few through-walkers.
Upper Clutha and Newcastle Track loop
The long, flat one along the riverUp the Newcastle Track on one side of the Clutha, across the Red Bridge and back down the other bank. Mostly smooth singletrack beside that blue river, great for a long run that doesn't wreck you. Want it shorter? Run out along the Newcastle Track and turn around whenever you like.
Shared with bikes. The Red Bridge is narrow and busy with trucks, so cross with care. No drinking water on the way, so take about 2 litres on a hot day. Dogs welcome.
Sticky Forest
Singletrack right on the edge of townA maze of twisty trails through the pines, a few minutes from the shop. Shady on a hot day and easy to make as short or as long as you want.
Sticky Forest is private land on its way back to its Māori owners, and running there is allowed by goodwill, not as a right. Treat it like a guest: stick to the existing trails and look out for mountain bikers.
Motatapu Track to Fern Burn Hut
A taste of the backcountry, close to townFollow the Fern Burn up through open flats and beech forest into tussock country, to a 12-bunk hut with big views back down the valley. Turn around and enjoy the downhill home.
12 km from Wānaka, signposted off the road at Glendhu Bay. The track crosses private station land, so close every gate and leave the stock alone.
Run with the locals
Four group runs a week and every pace is welcome: Monday Coffee Run, Thursday Run 4 Fun, Froyday on Roy's Peak and the Sunday Long Run.
See the group runsTravelled light?
Visiting town, or not ready to buy yet? We have rental gear, so you can still get out on the trails.
See rental gearCome say hi
Unit 3, 87 Sir Tim Wallis Drive, Three Parks. Ask us about trail conditions, grab a gel, and the filter coffee's always on.
Find the shopKeep it a good day
- Tell someone where you're going and when you'll be back.
- Check the weather. It changes fast in the mountains, even in summer.
- Carry water, a warm layer, a rain jacket and a charged phone. The sun here is fierce, so bring a hat and sunscreen too.
- Check the DOC website for track alerts. Some tracks across farmland close for lambing in spring.
Plan your trip and share it with someone on the Mountain Safety Council's free Plan My Walk. Distances and climbs are approximate and conditions change, so check before you go.