The Glenorchy Lagoon Walkway is a 3.2 km loop trail in Glenorchy that meanders along gravel paths and boardwalks through stunning wetlands, with great views of the top of Lake Wakatipu, including Mount Earnslaw / Pikirakatahi and the surrounding mountain ranges. The walk is especially beautiful in late spring, when vibrant lupins bloom, and in autumn, when the willows and poplars turn to gold. In Winter, snow on the peaks is reflected in the lagoons on a calm day.
The lagoons are home to many birds, including the pied stilt (poaka), South Island torea / oystercatcher, matuku-hūrepo / Australasian bittern, kuruwhengu / NZ shoveler, tete / grey teal, parera / grey duck, and papango / scaup. There is also a prominent local programme for supporting the karearea /NZ falcon.
The main entrance to the trail is from the north end of the lakeside car park, near the Glenorchy wharf and red boat shed. From there, it takes up to two hours to do the longer loop. You can reduce this to one hour by taking just the shorter loop. Another option is to park at the north end of Oban Street, which reduces the walk by 15 minutes each way.
It is also worth driving up the hill on the Glenorchy Paradise Road. There are some safe stopping points which provide fantastic views over the lagoons towards the Humboldt Range.
More challenging hikes, such as the Mt. McIntosh Loop and Judah Tracks can be found in the Richardson Mountains.
