Reflection Island — Local services in South Island

A truly scenic and relaxing walk. The loop is about 5 km (around 1.5 hours) and well worth it. We walked it clockwise, starting from the entrance where there’s a wooden photo frame that perfectly captures Mount Cook and Mount Tasman — one of the most iconic shots of the area.

Along the lake, the trail feels peaceful and close to nature. We were lucky to catch the water near Reflection Island completely still, mirroring the snowcapped peaks like a painting. The forest is full of lush moss and fresh fern shoots, with sunlight breaking through the trees to create natural rest spots.

The track finishes with a small suspension bridge over clear flowing water — a charming end to the loop. It’s not the kind of place that overwhelms you instantly, but the calm beauty slowly sinks in with every step. Highly recommended for anyone...

This was a wonderful walk in all. Clean bathrooms to start with. Cafe and gift shop with info at the parking lot. There is plenty of parking, especially for campervans and RVs. The walk starts off with a picture window on your right. Flat walk into a few gentle inclines and declines, nothing major. Cool bridge crossing. We enjoyed this walk on a sprinkling day, and we had time to sit and wait for the clouds to clear at the lookout around sunset. We didn't take the full loop just to the lookout and back, which was about 50min or so. There's calm energy felt sitting staring at the snow cap mountains during sunset and listening to the nightlife of the birds. Absolutely beautiful! No...

This is part of the Lake Matheson walk, which takes 1h 20mins loop.

The sign said a few different viewing points but they are in the middle of the loop so essentially you need to walk around the entire lake.

The walk is not hard, there are some stairs to go up/down the viewing area but the main path is quite flat.

There are many ducks around the lake. The reflection island is only reflecting like a mirror when there is no breeze nor rain nor cloud! They reckon early morning or late afternoon is the best time. It's still a nice walk though.

There are toilets, a visitor...