Are you bored of relying merely on ‘walking’ when it comes to how you can experience a hike?
While it may seem like a novel problem, there is an awesome solution.
A Mount Cook heli hike is just the adventure you need to shake up your hiking experiences. It will introduce you to one of the most incredible natural parts of the world and deliver a day of adventure that’s going to be hard to beat!
Mount Cook is where you’ll find the tallest mountain in New Zealand, which is also where Sir Edmund Hillary worked on his climbing skills before he moved on to conquer Everest. With peaks that reach far into the sky, year-round snow fields, and glaciers that are just begging to be explored, this is an absolute playground for thrill-seekers and sight-seers alike looking to get a taste of New Zealand’s immersive natural beauty.
With 23 peaks and sitting at over 3,000 metres high, when it comes to experiencing some of the most remote parts of Mount Cook, you’re going to need some help. That’s where a heli hike comes in. No aspect is out of reach when your adventure begins by air!
What is a Mount Cook heli-hike?
A Mount Cook Glacier heli hike gives you access to parts of the terrain that are normally reserved for the most experienced and dedicated of mountaineers. With a helicopter flight that swoops you into the heart of the glacier, you’re able to land in a remote and untouched part of the region that’s ready and waiting for your exploration. Here, you’ll experience an exciting ice trek that can’t be reached by foot, landing at 1200 metres above sea level with breathtaking views stretching out as far as the eye can see (and then some).
After the thrilling trip, you’ll spend up to two hours hiking through Mount Cook, soaking in the view and the atmosphere. An experienced local guide is always ready to make sure you are safe and comfortable. This guide will also kit you out with crampons so that you have the professional equipment you need to ensure you can navigate with ease.
Once you’ve hiked your heart out, the helicopter returns, taking you on another incredible trip back to Mount Cook Airport. This is another opportunity to take in the views – even after hours spent in the heart of the glacier, you’ll be soaking them in!
Who is the heli hike for?
The Mount Cook heli hike is more inclusive than other hikes, thanks to the helicopter component of the trip. A moderate level of fitness is required and a minimum age of 9 applies, meaning plenty of children are able to experience the hike for themselves.
If you are a first-time hiker who is eager to experience the glaciers for yourself, this hike is a brilliant opportunity, giving you the benefits of helicopter access to more remote aspects of Mount Cook for an unusual and immersive adventure.
Conclusion
New Zealand is spoiled for choice when it comes to incredible experiences in the natural environment. Still, a Mount Cook heli hike is certainly not to be missed, no matter how packed your itinerary is. This is a breathtaking way to experience the grandeur and scale of the country’s largest mountain. You can enjoy the year-round ice it’s coated with and spend an unforgettable day far outside the norm. Your Mount Cook heli hike adventure awaits – book it today and make the most of every moment as you go deeper and deeper into Mount Cook territory! Don’t let this amazing opportunity slip away.
