Roys Peak

Roys Peak is a mountain summit near Wanaka reached by a steep hiking trail that climbs through farmland and open hillside. The route follows a ridge with few sheltered areas and reaches a bare summit where views stretch across Lake Wānaka and toward the Southern Alps.

Early settlers named the mountain after the Scottish outlaw Rob Roy MacGregor during European exploration of the region. Māori people had traveled through this landscape long before, using routes between the lakes for trade and movement.

The mountain sits within working farmland where shepherds manage sheep herds seasonally, and local communities maintain the trail as part of their daily landscape. The track reflects how people here balance outdoor recreation with agricultural traditions.

The trail is fully exposed with no shade from start to finish, so sun protection and wind-resistant clothing are essential. Afternoon weather can change quickly, making an early start and careful timing crucial for a safe return before dark.

The most photographed viewpoint sits on a rocky platform about 30 minutes below the true summit, framing Lake Wānaka and the mountain range perfectly. Many hikers stop there and never reach the actual top, making it an unofficial endpoint for those chasing views rather than altitude.

Location: Queenstown-Lakes District

Elevation above the sea: 1,578 m

GPS coordinates: -44.69400,169.04873

Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:02