11 October 2026
Showers about the Divide, clearing early evening, otherwise fine.
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1 / 24Remarkables Conservation Area
Lake Alta Track
Climb to the picturesque glacial Lake Alta. In winter the route to the lake is through an operational ski field and is marked as an uphill access route for ski tourers and skiers.
Distance
2.4 km
Walking time
1 hr 30 min
Difficulty
Advanced
Dogs
On-lead only
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
Outdoor alert
Outdoor alert
Weather outlook
Southern Lakes forecast
Issued 11 Oct 2026, 7:33 am
12 October 2026
Fine.
13 October 2026
Rain in the afternoon and evening, otherwise partly cloudy with isolated showers.
14 October 2026
Heavy rain easing.
15 October 2026
A few showers.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Lake Alta Track on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Lake Alta Track
After driving to the Remarkables skifield base , follow the signs and trail up past the learners’ area (with the enclosed conveyor carpets) to the top of the Alta chairlift . T he trail (marked by cairns or green and yellow posts) then weaves through the rocks and alpine tussock to steadily climb up to the shores of the lake. The trail has an elevation gain/loss of 200m and takes about 1-1.5hrs to reach the lake. Return via the same track. During winter, the track is marked as the safe uphill access route for ski tourers and skiers and is featured on the terrain map. Please pop into the patrol building to check on the access status, as sometimes operational work might be going on which can affect you. Signage is in place on the mountain to guide you on the right route. Check the Remarkables website for more information.
Essential information for Lake Alta Track
In summer there is a $15 road toll at the bottom of the road to access the Remarkables skifield. In winter when the skifield is operational it is worth checking with ski patrol prior to commencing the walk to find out the safest route through the ski area and what snow conditions to expect. Check the Remarkables website for more information. At 1800m, Lake Alta is in an alpine environment, avalanches are possible in winter and weather conditions change quickly at all times of year.
Huts and campsites
There are no huts or official campsites in the area although some may choose to camp at the lake or at the nearby Wye Creek lakes (the other side of the Wye saddle). If wild camping, care must be taken to protect the environment and ensure all waste is taken with you.
Getting there for Lake Alta Track
The Remarkables skifield is well signposted and only a few kilometres from Frankton on the southbound SH6. The access road up the mountain is sealed for the majority of the way but can become treacherous in winter conditions (chains should be carried during winter). Parking and toilet facilities are indicated at the top of the road. 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 Lake Alta Track
Dogs on a leash only.
Before you walk Lake Alta 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.