Lake Matheson is well known for its incredible mirror-like reflections, offering a unique opportunity to capture the grandeur of the magnificent Aoraki Mount Cook and Mount Tasman mirrored perfectly on its glassy surface. There is often morning mist if you’re early enough to capture the sunrise, adding so much atmosphere to an already enchanting scene.

The Lake Matheson Walk is a 4.4-kilometer loop offers stunning views of the mountains that reflect on the still waters of the lake and starts with a suspension bridge crossing, passing through tall kahikatea and rimu as well as an abundance of smaller plants.

Photography info:

Of the three viewpoints available along the track, Reflection Island is the most aesthetically pleasing for composition. Around 5 minutes into the trail you will come to fork with signage directing you to go left or right around the track. Take the right hand path and this will get you to Reflection Island first in about 1.5km. Not far past the Reflection Island viewpoint on the right hand side of the track you will reach the steps that lead to the View of Views lookout. This is a beautiful elevated view of the lake. The Jetty Viewpoint is a great one for astrophotography as the milkyway lines up nicely but for sunrise and sunset I find it the least aesthetically pleasing for photography.

If you've got a selection of lenses, I would take your wide angle and a mid range lens like the 24-70mm. If you have an ND filter set definitely try out some long exposure photography to get that reflection looking crisp and perfect.

Dawn and dusk are the best time to visit for optimal photo opportunities as the wind tends to be more calm during these hours and you have a better chance of capturing a reflection.