The Hooker Valley Track during Spring is even more special when the rare and New Zealand native Mount Cook Buttercup is in flower. This is one of the most beautiful flowers and there is usually an opportunity to photograph it with Mount Cook in the background. Please be extra careful not to touch, disturb or damage any of the flowers.

The Hooker Valley track is approximately 4km one way on an easy gradient (1 1/2 hours one way), and when you reach your destination you are standing at the foot of Hooker Lake and Mount Cook. Enjoy unobstructed views of Mount Cook the entire way, and many photo opportunities including the Hooker River, Mount Sefton, Mueller Lake and Hooker Lake. I highly recommend this one if you want to be right in amongst the mountains but don't want to work too hard for it.

Take your wide angle and zoom lens with you and if you want the best light I would suggest going at goldens hours around sunset and sunrise.

With an easy gradient suitable for wheelchairs and buggies, visitors can pass three swing bridges and two lookouts on the 10 km walk to Hooker Lake. Make sure you bring appropriate clothing and watch out for warnings during fast weather changes that may lead to occasional track closures.