Discover the Hidden Gems of Tekapo on Our Exclusive Glenmore Tarns & Cass Valley Day Hike
Embark on an unparalleled Tekapo day hike into the private lands of Glenmore Station, blending scenic 4WD access with an immersive on-foot exploration of the alpine tarns and rolling countryside. This gentle hike traverses undulating terrain, offering majestic views of the Cass Valley, Cass River delta, Lake Tekapo, and the encompassing mountain ranges. It's an active adventure designed for those who appreciate the beauty of New Zealand’s high country up close.
Glenmore Tarns & Cass Valley Day Hike Highlights
This exclusive adventure takes you beyond the ordinary, offering unparalleled access to the secluded alpine tarns and rolling terrains of Glenmore Station's private lands. Experience the serene beauty of untouched alpine lakes, navigate through sheep trails across gentle knolls, and capture the essence of the Cass Valley and Lake Tekapo's majestic surroundings. Each step of this gentle hike unveils the stunning natural tapestry of the region, making it a highlight for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Join us for a journey where every view is a postcard and every moment is an unforgettable adventure.
- Exclusive access to Glenmore Station, a stunning expanse of private land known for its breathtaking landscapes and Merino sheep farming.
- An engaging 3-hour return trip that combines 4WD access with an immersive hiking experience.
- Gentle hike through beautiful alpine lakes, sheep singletrack, and ridgelines of gentle knolls offering panoramic views of the Cass Valley and beyond.
- A unique opportunity to see Lake Tekapo and its surrounding mountain ranges from vantage points inaccessible to the general public.
Tour Details
Duration
4 Hours
Departure
AOTEA GIFTS | Tekapo Township
Departure Time
10:00 AM - Year-Round
Minimum Group Size
2 People
Dress Code
Casual, Comfortable, Stable Footwear, Warm Jacket, Hat, Sunglasses, Camera
Included
✔️ 4WD Access to Hiking Start Point
✔️ Experienced Hiking Guide
✔️ Light Refreshment
✔️ Light Snack
Not Included
❌ Meals
❌ Souvenirs
Season
Operates year-round, offering a unique experience across different seasons.
Tour Notes
This tour includes light walking through stunning viewpoints, ideal for photo opportunities. Stable footwear is recommended to enjoy the hike comfortably.
Frequently Asked Questions
What level of fitness is required for this hike?
This hike is designed to be gentle with undulating terrain, making it accessible for participants with moderate fitness levels. Expect about 3 hours of walking, with opportunities to rest and enjoy the scenery.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the Glenmore Tarns & Cass Valley Day Hike is suitable for children who are comfortable walking for a few hours at a time. Please contact us if you have specific concerns or needs for younger hikers.
What should I wear on the hike?
Dress in layers to accommodate changing weather conditions. Wear comfortable, stable footwear suitable for uneven terrain, a warm jacket, a hat, and sunglasses. Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning views!
What's included in the tour price?
The tour price includes 4WD vehicle access to the starting point of the hike, an experienced hiking guide, light refreshments, and snacks. It provides a comprehensive experience without hidden costs.
Are meals included in the tour?
Light refreshments and snacks are included, but main meals are not provided. We recommend having a hearty breakfast before departure and bringing any additional snacks you may want throughout the hike.
How many people will be in our hiking group?
To maintain an intimate and enjoyable experience, group sizes are kept small. However, the exact number can vary. Please inquire about the specific group size if you have concerns or are booking as a large party.
What if the weather is bad on the day of our hike?
The tour operates year-round, and we’re prepared for all weather conditions. In case of extreme weather that could affect safety, we will contact you to discuss options, which may include rescheduling or canceling with a refund.
Can I book this hike as a private tour?
Yes, the Glenmore Tarns & Cass Valley Day Hike is available for private bookings. It's a fantastic way to personalize your experience, whether you're seeking solitude or celebrating a special occasion. Contact us for details and pricing.
What makes this hike unique compared to others in the area?
This hike offers exclusive access to private land, showcasing landscapes that are typically inaccessible to the general public. It combines scenic 4WD access with gentle hiking, making it a unique way to experience the high country wilderness up close.
How do we get to the starting point of the hike?
The tour departs from AOTEA GIFTS in Tekapo Township. Our 4WD vehicle will take you from there to the starting point of the hike, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free beginning to your adventure.
How do we get to the starting point of the hike?
The tour departs from AOTEA GIFTS in Tekapo Township. Our 4WD vehicle will take you from there to the starting point of the hike, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free beginning to your adventure.
Is there an opportunity to see wildlife on this hike?
While wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, the area is home to various bird species and farm animals. Keep your eyes peeled for Merino sheep, Big Horn rams, Angus cattle, and possibly even some of the local endangered bird species.
About Glenmore Station & The Cass Valley
Glenmore Station is an Iconic New Zealand High Country Sheep Station In the heart of the South Island’s Mackenzie Country. Glenmore is situated on the Western shores of Lake Tekapo and runs deep into the Cass Valley wilderness, bordered to the West by the Lieberg Range. Will & Emily Murray are the 4th generation of the Pioneer Murrays to run this beautiful station which has been farming Merino Sheep since 1912. Its stunning 19,000 hectares in size, is home to 10,000 Merino Sheep, Merino Studs, Angus Cattle, and Red Deer.
This breathtaking High Country has been recognized for supplying the World with some of the finest Merino Wool on offer, including the supply to the famous “Icebreaker” Brand since the start. With more than 19 years of continued Merino Wool supply, this station encompasses New Zealand at heart in many ways. Glenmore Station also holds an immense amount of Natural Landscape Values that are Unique to the Mackenzie Basin. Our 4WD Scenic Tours on this station will allow you to experience the outstanding array of stunning landscapes and natural features, unique to the Mackenzie Basin itself.
The Cass Valley is situated on the western side of Lake Tekapo, offering a world of Natural wonder and beauty. Access to this stunning alpine valley is solely through Glenmore Station. The Cass Valley Encompasses a large block of mountainous country, containing high inherent landscape values of The Mackenzie Country. The overall naturalness of the rocky steep scree slides, the U-shaped valleys carved by glaciation, waterfalls, glaciers, lateral moraines, and tussock-clad terraces, overwhelm the senses and ignite the wonder of such a supremely stunning and unique landscape. The Cass Valley's braided river system and Delta is also a special environment for some of New Zealand’s most endangered nesting birds such as The Black Stilt, The Wry Bill, The Black Fronted Turn, The Banded Dotterel, The Black Billed Gull, and the Oyster Catcher.
Meet Our Guides
Ben
Founder & Guide
Ben
As kiwi as it gets, hails from a long history of guiding throughout New Zealand and overseas. From The Milford Track, driving jet boats on the Hollyford track, or multi day hiking tours and enduro mountain bike expeditions, he is a man of many talents! Filled with a rich and passionate knowledge of geology and history, and wild places. Ben is the co founder of Tekapo Adventures and enjoys sharing his passion with people from around the globe. On his down time you can find him riding bikes with the kids, hunting and tramping and fixing vehicles!
Cristina
Founder & Guide
Cristina
A Can- Iwi as we call her, shes born in Canada and lives in New Zealand alongside Ben and their little two monkeys. You’ll enjoy her local knowledge and passion for nature and wild places, alongside her rich experience in guiding throughout the southern alps by hiking and Mountain biking for over 16+years. She looks after alot of the admin and marketing and sales and you can also find her behind the driver's seat too! On her down time you can find her exploring nature with the kids, or doing yoga.
Chris
Guide
Chris
A one-of-a-kind Mackenzie Country Charmer, Chris comes from a farming background, with a wealth of details and knowledge about the area's uniqueness. You'll surely have a good laugh and feel like your best mate is showcasing you this incredible backcountry. He's a charmer and a true highlight on many guests' experiences with us. On his downtime, he's a jack of all trades and drives big tractors in Canada during winter.
Wayne
Guide
Wayne
Wayne hails from a long history of Deer farming in the Mackenzie Country. A true natural of tales and laughs, you can be sure to enjoy Wayne witty nature and passion for farming and history of the area. Away from being a man of many tales, you can find Wayne riding his mountain bike and travelling afar and welcoming many overseas guests into their wonderful property in The Mackenzie.
Why Choose Tekapo Adventures
Choosing Tekapo Adventures means opting for a uniquely immersive experience in the Mackenzie Backcountry. Our intimate knowledge of the land, family roots, and commitment to sustainability make every journey with us not just a trip, but a foray into the heart of New Zealand's natural majesty. Join us to discover why our exclusive access, expert guidance, and diverse, educational adventures set us apart as the preferred choice for discerning explorers.
FAMILY HERITAGE
Join our family. Experience the warmth and personalized service that can only come from a family-run venture. We actively explore and share wonderful experiences with people from around the globe and our small family in The Mackenzie Backcountry. A part of our hearts lies in the landscapes found here.
DIVERSE EXPERIENCES
Whether it’s a peaceful 4WD tour or a challenging Alpine hike, our diverse offerings cater to all adventure spirits. 4Wd day tours to remote mutli day hiking experiences, we enjoy the diversity of exploring the Mackenize Backcountry in many ways.
EDUCATIONAL JOURNEYS
Expand your horizons. Our trips are infused with insightful narratives about the local ecology, geology, and history.
EXCLUSIVE ACCESS
Unveil the hidden corners of the Mackenzie Country with our unparalleled access to private lands. We hold exclusive access to some of New Zealand's most incredible high country stations.
EXPERT GUIDES
Learn from the best. Our guides are not only wilderness experts but also storytellers of the land.
SUSTAINABLE ADVENTURES
Journey with a clear conscience. Our eco-friendly approach ensures the preservation of these landscapes for years to come.
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