Jess is a Wanderer headed out to Aoraki/Mount Cook and what a place! Perfect, clear views of the mountain and a very manageable, very well-maintained track to Hooker Lake.
Despite being busy with tourists hiking the famou route, this was a fantastic way to spend a day. 10km return, it's suitable for all fitness levels and, if the weather is good, you'll thoroughly enjoy yourself. We did try to get around Hooker Lake and to the base of the mountain. A tricky endeavour that ended up with two clueless folks, in fading daylight, halfway up a scree slope discussing the possibility of becoming separated due to a fall. Fortunately, a quick march back in the dark saw us getting to safety with no major incidents to report!
There's a campsite at the car park where you can set up your base for a couple of days and complete the other walks in the area. A must-do for any keen tramper (hiker).