With the warmer months ahead, there’s no better time to get outside and explore the walking tracks around Hanmer Springs. Longer days, warmer temperatures and hopefully plenty of dry weather make it easier to get out into the sunshine and enjoy the forests, hills and mountain views surrounding the village.

You don't need to be an experienced tramper either. Hanmer Springs has an extensive network of tracks, ranging from easy family walks to more challenging mountain routes.

Here are a few worth adding to your next Hanmer Springs stay.

Conical Hill Walk

Conical Hill is one of the best-known walks in Hanmer Springs and a good step up from the easier forest tracks.

The track climbs steadily through the forest from the village before emerging at the summit, where you get wide views across Hanmer Basin and the surrounding mountains.

It's a worthwhile workout without taking up your entire day, making it easy to combine with lunch in the village or a soak in the thermal pools afterwards.

Woodland Walk

For something easier, Woodland Walk is a great family-friendly option.

The short loop starts at the entrance to Hanmer Forest Park and passes through woodland, meadow, exotic trees, wetlands and ponds. There's also a stream and plenty of birdlife along the way.

It's an easy walk to fit around other activities and can be combined with some of the other tracks in the forest if you feel like going a little further.

Forest Amble

The Forest Amble is another relaxed option, located in the Heritage Forest opposite the main Hanmer Forest entrance.

It's a good choice when you want to get outside without tackling a climb. The forest setting makes it particularly pleasant on a warm day, and it's easy to combine with other nearby walks.

For families with younger children, it's also a good way to introduce them to walking without turning it into a major expedition.

Dog Stream Waterfall

If you'd like a little more of a destination, head into Hanmer Forest Park towards Dog Stream Waterfall.

The track climbs through mountain beech forest before reaching the 41-metre waterfall. The walk takes a little more effort than the short village tracks, but the waterfall provides a worthwhile goal.

You can also combine the Waterfall Track with the Spur Track and Fir Trail to create a longer circuit.

Check track conditions before setting out, particularly after wet weather. (Doc.govt.nz)

Mt Isobel: For Something More Challenging

If the shorter walks have you wanting something more adventurous, Mt Isobel is where things get serious.

At 1,324 metres, Mt Isobel rises above Hanmer Springs and provides some of the area's best high-country views. The route from Clarence Valley Road passes through forest before reaching subalpine scrub and open grassland. Higher up, the terrain becomes rocky and exposed.

This isn't a casual stroll. DOC recommends the track for fit, experienced trampers, and warm layers, sturdy footwear and preparation for changing weather are essential. (Doc.govt.nz)

The reward is the scenery. From the higher slopes and summit, you get expansive views over Hanmer Basin and into the surrounding ranges. Looking towards the Clarence Valley and Molesworth country, the landscape becomes distinctly alpine, with the mighty Clarence River winding through the valleys towards the Kaikōura ranges.

There are several ways to access Mt Isobel, including the Jacks Pass route, which is shorter but steeper and more exposed. (Doc.govt.nz)

For experienced walkers looking for something substantially more challenging than a short forest walk, it's a great way to experience the bigger landscape around Hanmer Springs.

Make the most of the warmer months

One of the best things about Hanmer Springs is having so many walks within easy reach of town.

You can start the morning with a forest walk, head into the village for lunch and spend the afternoon relaxing at the thermal pools. Or, if you're keen for something more adventurous, set aside a day for the higher tracks and mountain scenery.

Before heading out, check the latest track conditions and weather forecast. Mountain weather can change quickly, particularly on exposed routes such as Mt Isobel. DOC also notes that some tracks can close because of fire danger or forestry operations. (Doc.govt.nz)

Then all that's left is to lace up your walking shoes, pack some water and make the most of the sunshine.

Stay close to the action

A comfortable holiday home makes it easy to fit walking into your Hanmer Springs getaway.

Get out early for a walk before the day warms up, come back for breakfast, or spend the afternoon exploring the forest before returning to your holiday home to relax.

Hanmer Holiday Homes has a range of properties throughout Hanmer Springs, making it easy to find a base that suits your group and your plans.

Whether you're after an easy family stroll, a climb to Conical Hill or a proper mountain adventure on Mt Isobel, there's plenty of walking to explore when you visit Hanmer Springs.