Rocky Mountain is a bit like Iron Mtn except it’s both higher and more demanding…and the view is substantially better! There’s a loop track to the top of Rocky Mtn which passes historic Diamond Lake on the way up. The track is a demanding hour-long climb featuring both steep steps and rocky sections. But wow, the top viewpoint is impressive indeed! You’ll have earned a rest when you reach the top, and to be sure, there’s plenty of 360° glory to feast your eyes on.
Glendhu Bay and the shingled mouth of the Matukituki River are immediately below. To the north glaciated peaks dominate the skyline with pointy 3,033m Mt Aspiring crowning them all. To the west you’ll get a full view of Treble Cone from top to bottom. Looking SW the Motatapu Stream winds its way west through singer Shania Twain’s vast green “Soho station”. And yes, of course, Lake Wanaka sprawls below from Island Mou Waho to Wanaka town and the wee bump of Iron Mtn behind it. Impressive indeed!
Apparently, gratitude for the track goes to Puzzling World’s Stuart Landsborough who spent years constructing and maintaining this track. The mapboard at the carpark details the area’s history as well as showing the routes and options. The best way to the top is counter-clockwise via the eastern route—it sports better views while you stop to catch your breath.
WALK: There are many options here, as the mapboard in the carpark details. The lake is easy, but not especially notable. The Lake Wanaka Viewpoint is a nice vantage for folks who don’t want to sweat their way to the top.
Comments
Demanding walk. Bring enough