Glenorchy: Gateway to Paradise
Glenorchy is an attractive small town located at the northern end of Lake Wakatipu, approximately 45 kilometres from Queenstown. The drive along the scenic Glenorchy Queenstown Road takes about 45 minutes and has stunning views. The town is surrounded by impressive landscapes, with the Richardson Mountains towering above. To the north, Mount Earnslaw / Pikirakatahi rises to 2,800 metres, showcasing its twin peaks and glacier. Across the lake to the west, Mount Bonpland in the Humboldt Mountains stands at 2,343 metres.
Gateway to Adventure
Known as the Gateway to Paradise, Glenorchy provides access to the nearby Paradise area, just 20 kilometres to the north. It also serves as a starting point for exploring Mount Aspiring and Fiordland National Parks. The town is a popular destination for day trips and outdoor activities. You can embark on multiday hikes such as the Routeburn, Dart / Rees, and Greenstone / Caples Tracks. For those preferring shorter excursions, there are short and day walks from the start of these tracks, such as a walk into the stunning Dart Valley and the first 2 to 4 hours of the Routeburn.
Local Attractions and Activities
Glenorchy itself features a historic wharf and a red boat shed on the lake's edge, both popular for photography. Nearby, a line of stunted willow trees in the lake offers another picturesque spot, though less famous than the Wānaka Tree. A stroll around the town takes only a few minutes, but don't miss the historic photo exhibition at the small outdoor museum and the quirky local gallery.
For a longer walk, the Glenorchy Lagoon Walkway offers an easy loop starting north of the wharf and red shed. More challenging hikes, such as the Mt. McIntosh Loop and Judah Tracks, are available in the Richardson Mountains. You can also enjoy jet boating, horseback riding, canyoning, kayaking, and scenic flights in the area.
Glenorchy has also appeared in a TV show - the 2013 BBC miniseries Top of the Lake, where it portrayed the fictional town of Laketop.
Getting to Glenorchy
To reach Glenorchy, drive approximately 45 minutes from Queenstown along the Glenorchy Queenstown Road.
On the northwest side of Lake Wakatipu, Kinloch is a quieter option for exploring the region, with a lodge and campsite. From there, you have easier access to the Greenstone Track, the Routeburn and shorter tracks such as the Rere Lake Walk and Lake Sylvan Track.
