Exploring Lake Hāwea's Scenic Walkway
Hāwea township is nestled at the southern end of Lake Hāwea, offering a picturesque setting for visitors. You can explore where the town meets the lake on the Lake Hāwea Track, a walkway and cycleway that runs alongside and above the lake's stony beach. This track provides stunning views of the lake, which slopes steeply in some areas. With several entry points from the road, visitors can enjoy the tranquillity of the lakefront without encountering many other people.
Lake Hāwea Track and Te Araroa
The Lake Hāwea Track is part of the larger Te Araroa trail network. This section of the trail emerges on the east side of the lake at Timaru Creek Road. The portion of the walkway in front of Hāwea township is approximately 3 kilometres long, making it a manageable 45-minute walk. At the western end of the walkway, you can cross the road in front of the dam to connect with the Hāwea River Track. This shared path links Albert Town and Wānaka, offering further exploration opportunities.
How to get to Lake Hāwea Track
To access the Lake Hāwea Track, head to Hāwea township on State Highway 6, either from Wānaka to the south or Haast to the north. Cross the small dam to reach Capell Avenue, which connects with the track at its west end, and then with several streets that run closer to the edge of the lake, which also have access points.
