Activities at Craigieburn Forest Park
Tracks and walks
There are tracks and huts throughout the park but all the best day walks are centred in a small corner close to Highway 73.
There's something here to suit either a family outing, a day walker or a fit tramper.
Other activities
Amenities here include picnic sites, a shelter, camping areas and the Environmental Education Centre.
Skiing
Two ski clubs operate fields within the park - Broken River and Craigieburn Valley. Visitors are very welcome during the winter months, though the roads can get snowed under and drivers should be equipped with chains.
Four wheel driving
The two ski field roads give 4WD access to the upper valley basins.
You need to be aware and take account of other road users, including mountain bikers, at all times.
Forest drives and picnic areas
Both the Broken River ski field road and the Craigieburn ski field road are short interesting drives in summer. Both are unsealed, narrow and winding.
There is an attractive picnic area beside Cave Stream on the Broken River ski field road, just off the main highway. Known as the Craigieburn Picnic Area, this sunny sheltered spot has an open shelter, picnic tables, information signs and grass river terraces for camping.
From the shelter there is a circuit road that passes Jacks Pass and the Environmental Education Centre, and continues onto the lookout carpark on the saddle. This carpark is the starting point for two short walks.
Climbing
There are opportunities for climbers in the park.
Dog walking
Dogs are presently allowed in the front faces of the park, but must be kept on a leash at all times. Kiwi and ground-feeding birds are very vulnerable to dog disturbance. Contact the Arthur's Pass Visitor Centre if at all in doubt about where to take your dog in the park.
back to top
Guided activities and tours