Moke Lake | Queenstown

Moke Lake is a stunningly beautiful and tranquil alpine lake located just a short drive from Queenstown, New Zealand. Nestled in the Southern Alps, it offers a peaceful retreat with its breathtaking scenery, crystal-clear waters, and excellent outdoor recreational opportunities. Here’s a detailed exploration of Moke Lake and what it has to offer:

1. Location and Access

Location: Moke Lake is situated about 10 kilometers (6 miles) from Queenstown, in the Moke Valley. The lake is framed by the Remarkables Mountain Range, offering incredible views of the surrounding alpine scenery. The area is remote enough to provide a sense of seclusion while still being easily accessible from Queenstown.

Getting There: To reach Moke Lake, visitors drive along the Moke Lake Road from Queenstown, passing through the stunning countryside. The road is gravel for the final stretch but is generally accessible in most vehicles, though a 4WD may be preferable during wet conditions.

2. Scenic Beauty

Mountain Backdrop: Moke Lake is surrounded by the majestic Remarkables Mountain Range, which rises dramatically above the lake. The contrast of the steep, jagged peaks and the peaceful waters of the lake creates a picture-perfect scene.

Peaceful Waters: The lake itself is small but incredibly scenic. The water is clear, and on calm days, it perfectly mirrors the surrounding mountains and sky, creating a stunning reflection. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery, including native forests and alpine meadows, making it a serene and picturesque spot.

Sunset and Sunrise Views: Moke Lake offers some of the most breathtaking sunset and sunrise views in the Queenstown region. The changing light on the surrounding mountains and the reflections in the lake create a magical atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for photography or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

3. Outdoor Activities

Moke Lake is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering various activities that take advantage of its beautiful setting.

Hiking and Walking: The Moke Lake Loop Track is a popular walking trail that takes visitors around the perimeter of the lake. It’s a relatively easy hike (about 1.5-2 hours), making it accessible for people of all fitness levels. The track offers incredible views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. For those looking for a more challenging adventure, there are other longer trails nearby, including routes up to the Remarkables and Ben Lomond.

Camping: Moke Lake is also a great spot for camping. The lake has a campground that offers basic facilities, including toilets and picnic tables. It’s a peaceful place to camp, surrounded by nature. The area is perfect for those who want to experience the outdoors without venturing too far from Queenstown.

Fishing: The lake is known for its good fishing opportunities. It’s stocked with rainbow trout, and anglers can enjoy a quiet day by the water, hoping to catch the perfect fish. Fishing in Moke Lake offers a serene and isolated experience, with beautiful views to enjoy while you wait for a bite.

Kayaking and Canoeing: The clear, calm waters of Moke Lake make it an ideal spot for kayaking or canoeing. Paddling around the lake allows visitors to take in the stunning views from a unique perspective. While the lake is small, it offers a peaceful and relaxing environment for those looking to spend some time on the water.

Picnicking: There are several excellent spots around the lake for a picnic, where visitors can enjoy lunch with stunning views. The area is generally quiet, so it’s a perfect place for a peaceful, nature-filled lunch break.

4. Wildlife and Flora

Flora: The area surrounding Moke Lake is rich in native New Zealand flora, including beech trees, manuka, and various alpine plants. The landscape is lush and green, providing a beautiful contrast to the rugged, rocky mountains that rise above the lake.

Wildlife: Moke Lake is home to a variety of native birdlife, including the iconic kea (an alpine parrot), which is known for its playful and curious nature. Other bird species such as fantails, bellbirds, and pukekos are commonly seen around the lake. The surrounding forests are also home to native wildlife, though larger animals are less common due to the area’s remoteness.

Trout: As mentioned earlier, rainbow trout are commonly found in Moke Lake, making it a popular fishing destination. The lake’s clear waters are ideal for spotting fish, and many people enjoy the challenge of fishing in such a beautiful setting.

5. Photography and Scenic Views

Moke Lake offers incredible photography opportunities due to its stunning surroundings. The combination of mountains, clear waters, and native forests creates a perfect landscape for capturing the natural beauty of the area.

Reflection Shots: On calm days, the lake creates perfect reflections of the surrounding mountains, which are a favorite subject for photographers. Whether at sunrise or sunset, the changing light conditions make for dramatic and picturesque shots.

Wildlife Photography: The birdlife and other wildlife around the lake offer additional opportunities for nature photography, especially with the playful kea and other native species.

6. Best Time to Visit

Summer (December to February): Summer is the best time to visit Moke Lake for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and kayaking. The weather is warm and the days are long, making it ideal for spending time outdoors.

Autumn (March to May): Autumn brings stunning colors to the area, with the changing leaves adding a beautiful contrast to the already impressive landscape. It’s a quieter time to visit, offering a peaceful atmosphere for those who prefer less crowded locations.

Winter (June to August): Winter at Moke Lake can be quite cold, with the surrounding mountains often covered in snow. The lake itself may freeze in colder years, creating a serene winter landscape. It’s a quieter time of year, ideal for those looking for solitude and winter beauty.

Spring (September to November): Spring is a lovely time to visit as the area starts to come to life with wildflowers and new growth. The weather can be unpredictable, but the region’s natural beauty shines through.

7. Accessibility and Facilities

Accessibility: Moke Lake is relatively easy to access by car from Queenstown, with a drive of about 20-30 minutes. The gravel road leading to the lake is well-maintained, though it may be slippery in wet conditions. The lake and surrounding areas are generally accessible year-round, although the weather conditions may affect road access during winter.

Facilities: While there are no large-scale facilities at Moke Lake, there is a small campground with basic amenities, including toilets and picnic tables. It’s a peaceful and low-key place, ideal for people seeking a natural experience without the hustle and bustle of more commercialized areas.

Conclusion

Moke Lake is a hidden gem near Queenstown, offering visitors a peaceful and picturesque environment for a range of outdoor activities. Whether you enjoy hiking, fishing, kayaking, or simply relaxing and taking in the stunning scenery, Moke Lake provides a perfect retreat in the heart of New Zealand's natural beauty. Its tranquil setting, combined with the incredible views of the Remarkables Mountain Range, makes it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.