Lake Matheson is a small lake between Fox Glacier township and the Westland coast. It is a very popular destination for travellers exploring Westland due to its easy 90-minute loop walk, Te Ara Kairaumati, and highly reflective quality.
The lake is fed by several streams that run through the surrounding forest. The plant tannins that leach into the lake darken it, which enhances reflectivity. On a fine day, reflections of the central region of the southern Alps, including Aoraki Mount Cook and Mount Tasman, can be seen from several locations on the loop track around the lake. The lake is also surrounded by mature native forest, providing a comfortable, mostly sheltered walk in most weather conditions.
Due to its popularity, there is a large parking area, an excellent visitor centre and a good cafe at the start of the track. The walk initially crosses a suspension bridge over the Clearwater River and then runs alongside farmland about 600 metres to the south end of the lake. Take the southwest side into the forest. dominated by kahikatea and rimu trees. Not long after this, Jetty Viewpoint is reached. This is the first opportunity for reflections of the central Southern Alps on a clear day. The path to the jetty is also suitable for wheelchairs.
From there, continue around the lake, mostly in the forest, to a boardwalk through a small pretty wetland at the lake's northern end. Immediately after the boardwalk is a short steep series of steps to the View of Views. This looks along the length of the lake towards the Alps. Heading along the northeast side, there is a third major viewpoint at Reflection Island. This one has a lot more room, and there is space to sit, have a snack and consider this stunning location.
Approaching the end of the loop, you will see the intersection with the Lake Gault Track. This adds five and a half km, a 300-metre climb and about two and a half hours to the walk. If you want to walk to Lake Gault, avoiding the loop around Lake Matheson is quicker, but you will miss the viewpoints.
To reach Lake Matheson, turn onto Cook Flat Road from Weheka / Fox Glacier township. After five km, turn onto the side road to Lake Matheson.
Thanks to Georgia (@the_cornishpixie) for the fabulous reflection shots.
