The Remarkables

The Remarkables are a mountain range on the southeastern shore of Lake Wakatipu in Otago, New Zealand, forming the eastern skyline of Queenstown. The range includes alpine peaks and a developed ski area used for recreational skiing and mountaineering.

The range’s highest point is Double Cone, which reaches about 2,319 metres, and there are multiple viewpoints looking across Lake Wakatipu and the town of Queenstown. The lower slopes host a commercial ski area with marked terrain accessible by road, plus numerous hiking and scrambling routes on summer tracks. Many visitors make short drives to roadside lookouts or take longer alpine walks into the Mount Aspiring / Queenstown backcountry.

The mountains are a natural feature shaped by regional geology; the ski field and visitor facilities were developed in the 20th century to support winter sports and tourism. The area has been altered by ski infrastructure while remaining a popular outdoor recreation zone.

The Remarkables sit immediately east of Queenstown, rising from the lake shoreline and forming a prominent ridge visible across the town. Access is from Queenstown and nearby roads that run along the lake and up into the ski area and trailheads.

• Best light and winter conditions: The skyline is most dramatic in winter and at sunrise when east-facing ridges catch low light; roads can close in severe snow.
• Safety and access: High-country routes can be steep and exposed; standard alpine equipment and local weather checks are recommended before attempting summit routes.

What to See #

• Double Cone (highest peak): The main summit Double Cone reaches 2,319 metres and is the highest point in the range; popular routes approach it from the Remarkables ski area and from lake-side tracks.
• Remarkables Ski Area: The Remarkables Ski Area occupies lower slopes of the range and provides alpine skiing and snowboarding terrain served by road access from Queenstown.
• Lake Wakatipu viewpoints: Several roadside viewpoints and short walking tracks give panoramic views across the southeastern shore of Lake Wakatipu and the town of Queenstown.