Remarkables | Queenstown

The Remarkables is one of New Zealand's most famous mountain ranges, located just outside of Queenstown on the South Island. Known for its strikingly jagged peaks and beautiful alpine scenery, the Remarkables offer a wide range of outdoor activities, both in the winter and summer months. Here's a detailed look at the Remarkables:

1. Geography and Formation

The Remarkables mountain range is part of the larger Southern Alps and runs along the southeastern side of Lake Wakatipu. The range is known for its steep, rugged slopes and dramatic cliffs, making it one of the most recognizable features of the Queenstown landscape.

• Highest Peak: The highest point in the Remarkables is The Remarkable, which reaches an elevation of 1,930 meters (6,334 feet). The range extends for around 40 kilometers (25 miles), offering stunning vistas of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the surrounding area.
• Geological Formation: The Remarkables are made up of a combination of rocks, including schist and limestone, that have been shaped over millions of years by geological forces such as tectonic movement and erosion. Their distinctive jagged appearance is a result of these forces.

2. Skiing and Snowboarding (Winter Activities)

During the winter months, the Remarkables are one of Queenstown’s premier destinations for skiing and snowboarding. The Remarkables Ski Area offers a wide range of slopes suitable for all levels of skiers and boarders, from beginners to advanced.

• Ski Area: The Remarkables Ski Area is located on the southern side of the mountain range. The resort is accessible by a road that starts from the nearby Queenstown. The ski area has been continuously developed and improved, providing an excellent winter sports experience.
• Terrain: The Remarkables Ski Area is known for its variety of terrain, which includes wide open runs, steep chutes, and terrain parks for freestyle skiing and snowboarding. The resort features 5 chairlifts and a variety of runs, offering something for everyone, whether you’re a beginner or an advanced skier.
• Snowfall and Conditions: The Remarkables Ski Area benefits from good snowfall and a long ski season, typically running from June to October. The area is known for its dry, powdery snow, making it an ideal location for winter sports enthusiasts.

3. Summer Activities

In the summer months, the Remarkables provide an excellent backdrop for outdoor activities, with hiking, mountain biking, and sightseeing being popular options.

Hiking and Walking: The Remarkables offer a variety of hiking trails with stunning views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu. These trails cater to all levels of fitness, from easy walks to more challenging hikes. Some of the notable trails include:

• The Remarkables Summit Track: A more challenging hike that takes you to the summit of the Remarkables. The track offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and lakes.
• Lake Alta Track: A shorter, moderate hike that takes you to Lake Alta, a beautiful alpine lake surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery.
• The Shadow Basin Track: A scenic trail that winds through alpine meadows and offers great views of the Remarkables’ rugged peaks.

Mountain Biking: The Remarkables’ terrain also makes it an ideal destination for mountain biking. There are trails suitable for riders of all skill levels, from smooth, scenic rides to more technical downhill courses. Some biking routes provide thrilling rides down the mountain, with sweeping views of the valley below.

Sightseeing and Photography: The Remarkables are a prime location for photographers and nature lovers. The mountain range is frequently photographed for its striking beauty, especially at sunrise and sunset when the jagged peaks are bathed in golden light. Lake Wakatipu offers a particularly stunning foreground for capturing the Remarkables in their full glory.

4. Access and Transportation

The Remarkables Ski Area and the surrounding hiking and sightseeing areas are easily accessible from Queenstown.

• Road Access: To reach the Remarkables Ski Area, you can drive along the Remarkables Road, which is well-maintained and leads up to the resort’s car park and ski lifts. The road is open year-round, though it can be closed temporarily during adverse weather conditions in winter.
• Shuttle Services: During the ski season, there are shuttle services available from Queenstown to the Remarkables Ski Area. These shuttles provide a convenient option for visitors who don’t want to drive.
• Guided Tours: There are also various guided tours available, whether you’re interested in skiing, snowboarding, or hiking. These tours are led by experienced guides who can provide insights into the local environment and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

5. Scenic Views and Photography

The Remarkables offer some of the most dramatic and awe-inspiring views in the Queenstown region. Whether you’re on the slopes during winter or hiking in summer, the views from the Remarkables are truly spectacular.

• Views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu: From the summit and various points along the hiking trails, you can enjoy sweeping views of Queenstown, the Lake Wakatipu basin, and the surrounding mountain ranges. The contrasting colors of the lake's deep blue waters against the rugged mountains create an iconic New Zealand landscape.
• Sunrise and Sunset: The Remarkables are renowned for their incredible sunrise and sunset views, especially when the sun casts a warm glow on the mountain peaks, creating a photographer’s paradise.

6. The Remarkables Conservation Area

The Remarkables range is also part of a conservation area, which is protected to preserve its unique alpine environment. This includes native vegetation, such as alpine meadows, tussock grasslands, and forested areas at lower elevations. The area is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including native birds like the kea and rock wren.

• Conservation Efforts: The Department of Conservation (DOC) works to ensure the preservation of the natural environment in the Remarkables, including managing the impact of tourism and recreational activities.

7. The Remarkables and Adventure Tourism

While the Remarkables are best known for their winter sports and hiking, the region also attracts visitors interested in adventure tourism. Queenstown, known as the "Adventure Capital of the World," offers activities such as bungee jumping, skydiving, and paragliding, many of which offer stunning views of the Remarkables.

• Adventure Tourism Hub: Queenstown serves as a base for travelers engaging in adrenaline-pumping activities. The Remarkables themselves are often a backdrop for activities such as helicopter tours, mountain biking, and 4WD tours, providing an adventurous way to explore the mountains.

8. Visitor Information

• Best Time to Visit: The Remarkables can be visited year-round, with winter being the peak season for skiing and snowboarding, while summer offers opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and sightseeing.
• Accommodation: While there is no accommodation at the Remarkables Ski Area itself, visitors can stay in Queenstown and easily access the mountains via a short drive or shuttle. Queenstown offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly lodges and holiday parks.
• Facilities: The Remarkables Ski Area has facilities for skiers and snowboarders, including rental shops, ski schools, restaurants, and cafes, making it a convenient location for both beginners and experienced winter sports enthusiasts.

Conclusion

The Remarkables is an iconic mountain range that offers year-round activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're seeking winter sports thrills, hiking in the summer, or simply enjoying the stunning views, the Remarkables provide a unique and unforgettable experience. Their accessibility from Queenstown, combined with the stunning natural beauty, makes them one of New Zealand's most popular and cherished destinations.