The start of the Hooker Valley Track leads through open grassland, as it passes close to the Alpine Memorial, a memorial to the mountaineers who have died in the Mount Cook National Park over the years. The memorial site overlooks the proglacial lake of Mueller Glacierd
This memorial is in the Hooker Valley on a short trail towards the glacier. It was placed many years ago to honor several climbers who perished on the way to summit Mt. Cook. Since then, several other plaques were added to those who continue to attempt the summit, but never make it. A sobering place to visit and remember those who sought the peak.