Lake Matheson

Start: Park in the large car park and head for the toilets and shop/café to start the walk.

(S/E) From the café deck, follow the path and cross the footbridge over the Clearwater River and continue along this wooded path to an intersection.

(1) At the Y-junction, turn left to go clockwise around the lake. Follow this very well-maintained path and enjoy the views of the lake when you take short detours, or when the path crosses a kind of a bridge. Shortly after the end of the lake, come to a flight of steps.

(2) Take the stairs on the left to gain height and enjoy a lovely view of the lake and the mountains reflected in it. Return to the path and turn left to follow it clockwise. There's another detour, down to the lakeside a little further along on the right, where you can enjoy the view, then climb back onto the path. The path slightly goes away from the lake.

(3) Keep right at this junction, otherwise the walk continues as far as Gault lake. Finish the circular walk around the lake by returning to the Y-junction.

(1) Go back the way you came to find the store and café (S/E)

Start: Park in the large car park and head for the toilets and shop/café to start the walk.

Terrain: Well-maintained path.

Facilities: Gift shop and coffee shop at the start. Toilets.

Find more information about the lake and closures at the DOC website here.

A beautiful reflection on the lake makes for a breathtaking view.