Rocky Mountain Diamond Lake In Wanaka
Diamond Lake Circuit Track return: 2.5 km / 1.5 miles (45 min)
Diamond Lake Lookout return: 2km / 1.2 miles (1 hr)
Lake Wanaka Lookout return: 5km / 3 miles (2 hrs)
Rocky Mountain Summit Track return: 7km / 4.3 miles (3 hrs)
This set of walks just outside Wanaka will suit all levels of fitness, with variations that range from 45 minutes to three hours, depending on which track you choose to follow.
The track starts from the car park on the right side of Mount Aspiring road and follows an old 4W drive track to Diamond Lake. To this point only, mountain biking is permitted. For walkers, the track continues on to a viewing platform above Diamond Lake, or, at this point, you can choose to circuit the lake. The Lake circuit is relatively flat and an easy walk, the route up to the lookout is a moderately steep and does require some fitness.
From the Diamond Lake viewing platform you can take the upper-level circuit that winds its way to the top of 775 metre Rocky Mountain, and you have the option of the east or west track routes up. To make the most of the stunning views of Lake Wanaka below you, we suggest taking the west track up and returning on the east track.
Getting there
Diamond Lake Conservation Area is just past Hospital Flat, 12km from Wanaka Town, on the Matukituki Valley Road.