11 October 2026
Cloudy periods.
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1 / 40Mount Aspiring National Park
Blue Pools Track
Nestled among native beech forest, the Blue Pools are an easy and popular short walk on the scenic Haast Highway.
Distance
3.2 km
Walking time
1 hr 30 min return
Difficulty
Easiest
Dogs
Not allowed
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
Predator control for Mt Aspiring National Park
Predator control for Mt Aspiring National Park
Weather outlook
Mount Aspiring National Park forecast
Issued 11 Oct 2026, 7:33 am
12 October 2026
Fine, but becoming overcast at night.
13 October 2026
Rain, heavy for a time in the afternoon. Snow to 2300 metres.
14 October 2026
Rain, with snow to 2100 metres, easing.
15 October 2026
Partly cloudy with isolated showers.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Blue Pools Track on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Blue Pools Track
A short and easy walking track for all fitness levels. The track wanders briefly through beech and podocarp forest and crosses a wooden bridge before arriving at a swing bridge for the best views of these stunningly clear glacial blue waters that flow from the mountains into the Makarora River. Access to the water’s edge is possible. Return via the same track. This track is also the best starting point for the Gillespie Pass Circuit when the Makarora river is in high flow.
Essential information for Blue Pools Track
Due to high amounts of sandflies , insect repellent is recommended. Limited number of people are allowed on each bridge at any one time. Read the signs and wait for your turn if necessary. Toilets are available at the carpark.
Getting there for Blue Pools Track
From Wānaka, drive north on the Haast Highway (SH6) to Makarora township. Continue along the highway for about 12 km. The track starts from the Blue Pools carpark off SH6, opposite Cameron Flat campsite. Use this location in Google Maps to find your way there.
Helpful resources
We encourage you to continue gaining the skills and knowledge required for a safe trip. The NZ Mountain Safety Council has lots of free resources and information you can use. These can be accessed via www.mountainsafety.org.nz . We recommend trying these online learning tools: Trip Planning Tramping / field Skills Basic Navigation River Safety Additionally, check out the range of helpful videos available from the NZ Mountain Safety Council YouTube channel .
Dog access for Blue Pools Track
No dogs.
Before you walk Blue Pools Track
Track information, access and weather can change. Confirm current alerts and land-manager information close to departure, tell someone your plans, and carry equipment appropriate for the route and conditions.