Activities in Arthur's Pass National Park

Walks

There's something for every walker in Arthur's Pass - from short 30 minute strolls through beech forest suitable for families, to a strenuous climb to the summit of a mountain with panoramic views for those with experience seeking a challenge.

Overnight tracks and routes

A network of tracks and routes lead into remote valleys and over high alpine passes. In summer these are suitable for groups of average fitness and experience. The two-day Mingha/ Deception Track over Goat Pass is a classic east-west traverse, but involves lots of river crossings so is very weather-dependent.

Route guides have been written for the most popular trips:

• Route guide 1 Carrington Hut
• Route guide 2 Carrington Hut - Waimakariri Col - Otira
• Route guide 3 Harman Pass 
• Route guide 4 Three Passes
• Route guide 5 Avalanche Peak - Crow River
• Route guide 6 Mingha - Deception
• Route guide 7 Edwards - Otehake
• Route guide 8 Edwards - Hawdon
• Route guide 9 Minchin Pass
• Route guide 10 Casey Saddle - Binser Saddle
• Route guide 11 Harper Pass
• Route guide 12 Cass - Lagoon Saddle
• Route guide 13 Avalanche Peak

Mountaineering

The mountain ranges of Arthur’s Pass National Park have been a climbing mecca since 1891. Mt Rolleston (2275 m) near the summit of Arthur’s Pass is a popular climb for novice mountaineers to cut their crampons on.

Mountain biking

The Mt White Road traverses tussock flats bordering the grand Waimakariri River, with wide sweeping views up the valley and around 25 km of unsealed road. Allow about 2 hours from Mt White Bridge to Poulter River, one way.

Mountain biking is permitted only on formed roads within national parks.

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