Rex Simpson Hut

Lake Tekapo mountain retreat

Rex Simpson Hut is located in a beautiful setting on a glacial moraine terrace at 1300m in the Two Thumb Range.

The Best Day Hikes & Walking Trails in Tekapo

Explore Tekapo and its stunning mountain and lake views

Welcome to Lake Tekapo!

Two Thumb Range Adventures

Alpine Wilderness Just Beyond Lake Tekapo

The Two Thumb Range rises dramatically above Lake Tekapo, forming the backbone of one of New Zealand’s most accessible yet untouched alpine wilderness areas.

Advanced Alpine Navigation Course

Intensive Navigation Training for Expedition Travel, Mountaineering, and Adventure Racing

The Advanced Alpine Navigation Course is an intensive multi-day training course designed for experienced outdoor travellers who want to develop high-level navigation skills for complex terrain and expedition environments.

The Best Bike & Cycle Trails in Tekapo

Explore Tekapo and its stunning mountain and lake views by bike

Located in the heart of New Zealand’s Mackenzie Region, Lake Tekapo is fast becoming one of the country’s top destinations for cycling, stargazing, and outdoor adventure.

The Best Freeride, Ski Touring & Split-Boarding Adventures in New Zealand

Discover the Ultimate Backcountry Experience in the Southern Alps

New Zealand’s Southern Alps are a paradise for freeriders, ski tourers, and split-boarders seeking untouched powder, thrilling descents, and remote backcountry terrain.

Cass Valley Backcountry Tours

Explore the iconic high country between Lake Tekapo and Aoraki Mount Cook

Nestled in the heart of the Southern Alps, the Cass Valley near Lake Tekapo offers an unrivaled playground for those seeking adventure in New Zealand's backcountry.

Private Mountain Huts

Exclusive Backcountry Accommodation in the Southern Alps

For those seeking rustic comfort in the wilderness, Alpine Recreation’s privately owned Caroline Hut and Rex Simpson Hut provide a warm, well-equipped base for backcountry adventures.

Nordic / Cross-Country Ski Touring

Explore New Zealand’s Best High-Country Ski Terrain

Experience the magic of Nordic and cross-country skiing in the stunning Two Thumb Range, a winter paradise offering wide open snowfields, rolling alpine terrain, and breathtaking views over Lake Tekapo and the Southern Alps.

Lake Tekapo Backcountry Adventures

Multi-Day Guided Trips in New Zealand’s Big Sky Country

Nestled in the heart of the Mackenzie Basin, Lake Tekapo is the perfect launch point for unforgettable mountain adventures with Alpine Recreation.

Lake Tekapo Alpine Hikes & Treks

Explore stunning alpine terrain in the Mackenzie High Country

Looking to hike Tekapo and explore New Zealand’s alpine backcountry beyond the crowds?

Navigation Training for Spirited Women Adventure Race

Preparing for Spirited Women Tekapo 2027

With the Spirited Women Adventure Race heading to Lake Tekapo in 2027, navigation will be one of the most important skills for teams wanting to move efficiently through the course.

Lady Emily Hut

Mackenzie high country adventures

Lake Tekapo Ski Touring & Split-boarding

Multi-Day Backcountry Adventures with Private Huts and Expert Guides

Discover the wide open terrain and hidden powder stashes of the Two Thumb Range and Cass Valley, right above Lake Tekapo.

Alpine Navigation Courses

Map, compass and route-finding training for trampers, mountaineers, ski tourers and adventure racers

In the mountains, navigation is more than just finding your way — it’s a critical safety skill.

New Zealand Snowshoe Hikes & Winter Treks

Snowshoeing adventures in the Mackenzie Country

Snowshoeing in the Lake Tekapo and Aoraki Mount Cook region of New Zealand offers the ultimate escape into a winter wonderland, where the beauty of snow-covered peaks and crystal-clear skies awaits.

Falcon's Nest Hut

The perfect mountain escape

O'Leary's Hut

Soak in a hot tub under the stars

New Zealand Summer Mountain Adventures

Alpine trekking, high passes, and breathtaking views in the heart of the Southern Alps.

When the winter snow melts and the mountains open up, New Zealand’s high country transforms into a stunning alpine paradise — ideal for hiking, climbing, and exploring on foot.

New Zealand Winter Mountain Adventures

Snow-covered peaks. Crisp alpine air. Adventure at its purest.

Step into a world transformed by snow — where rugged ridge-lines, frozen valleys, and sparkling peaks create the perfect playground for winter adventure.

Snowshoeing in the Two Thumb Range

My friend Jude & I recently decided Snowshoeing would be a new adventure worth trying.

Winter in the Cass

An ode to Falcon’s Nest Hut

"In the hush of dawn where the snow lies deep, The Cass Valley stirs from its alpine sleep.

Explore Lake Tekapo

Discover the Beauty, Adventure, and Serenity of New Zealand’s Mackenzie Country

Nestled on the edge of a turquoise alpine lake and framed by the snowcapped Southern Alps, Lake Tekapo is one of New Zealand’s most iconic and photogenic destinations.

Preparing for your Mountain Adventure

Venturing into New Zealand’s Southern Alps is an unforgettable experience — one that rewards preparation, curiosity, and a healthy respect for the mountains.

Articles

Features and editorials about Alpine Recreation and our adventures.