Moonlight Track
The Moonlight Track is Arthurs Point's great slow adventure — a 9.7-kilometre out-and-back trail that climbs above the Shotover River, follows historic gold-mining routes through open tussock country, and rewards every step with mountain-and-valley panoramas that no gondola ticket can replicate.
History Underfoot, Mountains Overhead
The track traces routes used by gold miners in the 1860s as they pushed between Queenstown and the remote Moke Lake basin. The first section rises quickly through native bush before the trees give way to open hillside, and suddenly the full sweep of the Shotover valley and the surrounding ranges fills the horizon.
It connects Arthurs Point to Moke Lake campground — a remote, glacier-carved lake that sits in a natural bowl with no road noise and a genuine sense of wilderness. Most day-walkers turn back at the high point above the river, which is perfectly satisfying on its own.
Planning Your Walk
The trailhead is at the Arthurs Point end, where there is roadside parking. The track is rated moderate — steep and narrow in places but well-defined throughout. Allow 3–4 hours for the full out-and-back to Moke Lake, or 1.5–2 hours for the high-viewpoint turnaround.
Mountain bikers also use the Moonlight Track and rate it a backcountry classic; if you're on foot, expect to share the trail and step aside on the descents. Start early to catch the morning light on the Remarkables range to the south.
Moonlight Track on video
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