NZ Day 3 Journal (11/11/16): Although it rained ALL day today, we bundled up and explored Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, driving the shores of Lake Pukaki and hiking the Hooker Valley Track to Hooker Valley Glacier and Lake. Possibly our favorite alpine hike ever!
Over the relatively short 5km of moderately ascending trail, 3 hanging bridges span the Hooker River at various sections. Clara isn’t to sure about this one in the wind and rain!
Clara and I enjoying the view from a cliff overlooking Lake Pukaki. Although it was rainy and visibility was poor, the water was still intensely blue and clear all at once.
The Hooker River, fed by the glacier of the same name, has a bizarre blue/white color caused by rock flower suspended within it. Put this hike on your must-see list, it is amazing!
The 5km Hooker Valley Track takes you to Hooker Valley Lake, with the glacier feeding it from the far end of the valley. Icebergs sit quietly in the clear-blue water. On a clear day Mt. Cook towers above, but today it felt very intimate and peaceful.
A small tarn fills with rain water high in the Hooker Valley.