The Wanaka region has a wonderful selection of hikes and wilderness tracks that are accessible to most fitness levels. They range from short lakeside strolls to long trails over alpine wildernesses.
One of the shortest and easiest walks is the hour-long Outlet Track that starts where the mighty Clutha River exits Lake Wanaka and follows the river downstream to Albert Town.
This track is suitable for walkers of all ages and is very popular with joggers and mountain bikers. The walk is great in either direction, with Lake Wanaka's entrance about 6 kilometre from the township.
Originally a narrow fishing track, the route still provides access to one of the most popular trout fishing spots in the country.
For a couple of weeks during autumn, the 5 kilometre-long Outlet Track becomes a breathtaking site as the river bank poplars and willows shed their leaves in a riot of gold, red and orange. The path transforms into a thick carpet of yellow autumn leaves.
There are other trails around the lake that take up to three hours to walk. One of these goes along the western side of the lake past Rippon Vineyard, and another along the eastern side to the start of the Outlet Track.