Helicopter Hill Track
Located in Craigieburn Forest Park in the Canterbury region
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Introduction
This track leads from Lyndon Saddle to the summit of Helicopter Hill, with great views.500 m one way
Dog access
This track starts at Lyndon Saddle. You can reach it on Mistletoe Track or The Luge Track.
From Lyndon Saddle, the track climbs along a steep ridge with open screes between the beech forests. The top of Helicopter Hill (1256 m) is covered with tussock and low hebes and grasses. From here there are spectacular views of the Craigieburn and Torlesse ranges and the limestone landscape of Castle Hill Basin.
You will also pass patches of felled pine trees that are gradually being cleared from the hill, as this is a major take-off site for wind-blown pine seed to be dispersed across the Castle Hill Basin. Please help by pulling out any pine seedlings you come across.
This track starts at Lyndon Saddle. You can get to Lyndon Saddle by walking Mistletoe Track or The Luge Track.
No mountain biking or fires
There is no mountain biking allowed on this track, as it is a very popular family walk. You can mountain bike on The Luge Track nearby, as well as a range of other tracks in the area.
No fires are allowed within Craigieburn Forest Park.
This track is very exposed
Much of this track is not in the bush – it is fully exposed to the weather.
In summer it gets very hot, so pack plenty of water and sun protection. Snow is common in winter.
In bad weather during any season, you will have little shelter against high wind, rain and cold temperatures. Always check the forecast before you go and pack warm layers and a waterproof jacket. Track can be icy in winter.
Weather forecasts for Mt Cheeseman and Canterbury High Country.
Expect wasps, especially in summer and early autumn
Wasp populations reach high numbers from January to March – wear light coloured clothing and carry antihistamine cream/tablets as a precaution.
Contacts
| Arthur's Pass National Park Visitor Centre | |
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| Phone | +64 3 318 9211 |
| arthurspassvc@doc.govt.nz | |
| Address | 104 West Coast Road Arthur's Pass 7654 |
| Hours | See visitor centre hours |