The Lake George Scott Walk is a medium 3 or 10km walk that will take you around 1 to 2 hours.

This walk starts on the western side of Main Road Bridge in Lake Tekapo township, right near the Fire Station. You will see a poled route that climbs towards the river terrace. This climb is steep but the track then descends to the lower river terrace and takes you into larch forest. 

The track starts off along the Tekapo River, but then cuts back through open grassland toward Lake George Scott. The lake is about 3 km downstream from the bridge. It is a man-made lake whose purpose is to redirect the water from the river towards Tekapo B power station.

From Lake George Scott, you have the option of returning the way you came or taking the track that climbs through the pine forest to the boundary fence. The way there allows for close up views of the Tekapo River and the Lake, but the route along the fence line offers a vista view of them and the hydro canal.

The fence line route then reconnects with the original track. As you ascend back towards the river terrace, you will be looking over Lake Tekapo and the surrounding mountains—in case you didn’t look back at their beauty in the first place.

Enjoy the Tekapo hot pools after your walk

Especially wonderful in winter, but any time of the year is good, finish off your hike or walk in Tekapo with a soak in the hot springs. If you don’t mind what time you go you can get cheaper entry tickets to the hot pools on this link.  The pools are open every day except Christmas day. There is a great day spa and cafe, bar to enjoy as well. The hot pools overlook stunning Lake Tekapo.

Quick Facts about this walk

  • Location: Lake Tekapo, South Island, New Zealand
  • Time needed: 1-2 hour walk
  • Distance: 3 km return or 10 km loop walk
  • Difficulty: Medium
  • Bikes allowed: Yes, take your mountain bike
  • Route: One way or loop
  • Wet Feet: No
  • Toilets: No
  • Dogs: On leash only
  • Mobile Coverage: Yes, very good

Summary points about this walk

Walk Highlights

The track is along the western side of the Tekapo River until the Tekapo A power station.

Track Quality

The track is well-gravelled and has poles to follow.

Transport

Lake Tekapo town is a stop on InterCity’s bus network.

Water

Drinking water is available in Lake Tekapo town, but not along the walk.

Driving Instructions

Lake Tekapo township is along SH8, about 3 hours from Queenstown or Christchurch.

Shops & Restaurants Nearby

There are shops and restaurants in Lake Tekapo.

Area & Trail History

Lake Tekapo was once covered by glaciers. As the glacier moved, it dumped large amounts of terminal moraine eventually resulting in the damming of the valley causing. The valley filled with water and formed the lake. Lake George Scott, also known as Scott Pond, is named after the late George Scott, a former superintendent of the nearby Tekapo A power station.

Map Location

See more of my Lake Tekapo walks