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!

Alpine Navigation Fundamentals Course

Learn practical navigation skills for adventure racing, hiking, ski touring, and mountaineering

Our Alpine Navigation Fundamentals Course is a hands-on introduction to backcountry navigation.

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.

Avalanche Skills Courses

Develop the skills and judgement to travel safely in avalanche terrain

Learn how to recognise, assess, and manage avalanche risk with our practical, field-based avalanche skills courses.

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.

MSC Avalanche Skills Course 2

Practical Avalanche Safety & Terrain Management for Experienced Backcountry Travellers

Learn how to analyse the snowpack, assess slope stability and develop safe travel techniques with expert tuition from avalanche professionals!

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

About the Author Elke has spent many years navigating in the mountains through alpine guiding, expedition travel and adventure racing.

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.

Lady Emily Hut

Mackenzie high country adventures

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

Snowshoeing in the Two Thumb Range

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

Off the Grid in the Cass

Four days of backcountry ski touring from Lady Emily Hut

We’d barely seen another soul since turning off the Tekapo highway.

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.