Arthurs Pass Tourism (2024) > Top Places, Travel Guide, Holidify

Arthur's Pass Travel Essentials

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Ideal duration: 1-2 Days

Best Time: December - February

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Arthur's Pass Tourism

New Zealand is blessed with an abundance of national parks and the township of Arthur’s Pass lies at the doorstep of one of its finest - Arthur’s Pass National Park. Arthur’s Pass itself is rife with spectacular scenery as it snakes 900m in elevation through the national park earning it the distinction of being the country’s highest alpine pass. The mountains of the national park, the steep scree slopes and ski basins around the area have resulted in the region being known as the Backbone of the South Island. This historic pass is also notable for being the first path that the Maori tribe used in search of pounamu, or New Zealand jade.

Arthur's Pass National Park is considered an engineering marvel as the place is riddled with viaducts, bridges, rock formations and waterfalls that are redirected into chutes. The entire park is split into two landscapes, namely the East and West region. In the East, one can find beautiful shingle riverbeds and a beech forest. On the West side, rainforests and gorge riverbeds adorn the landscape. The winters here are the place to be for skiing and the pass sees massive footfall for winter sports enthusiasts.

One can also drive, hike and mountaineer through the park but to get a unique experience, see the park through the famous Tranz Alpine Rail Service that is available here at Arthur's Pass. It is located close to Craigieburn Forest Park and is a pitstop that is most popular for those travelling from Canterbury to the West Coast. The nearest town is Christchurch which is 2 hours away. Arthur's Pass can be reached via the many buses that go from Christchurch.

1. Arthur's Pass Walking Track

The magniicent 6.8-mile Track takes visitors through waterfalls, streams with the cleanest water and the famous Arthur's Pass Summit. The Track starts from Devils Fishbowl Parking Lot till the Do (Read More)bson Memorial at the Summit.

2. Devils Punchbowl Falls

Standing 131 meters tall and part of the Walking Track, this waterfall is a must visit for anyone visiting the park. It is located at Arthur' Park Village and easily accessible as it doesnt require a (Read More)trek to reach. It can be visited throughout the year with no weather constraints. It is best experienced during the monsoons as the waterflow is lush and heavy.

3. Hike to Avalanche Peak

It is a 6 kilometre trail with an elevation climb of 1100 feet. It is not a easy trek so it is for people who are moderate to advanced hikers. Although a tough climb, the view at the top is one of the (Read More) best of the Southern Alps one can get.

4. Arthur's Pass Village

The village acts as the starting point to all treks and trails here at the national park. The visitor centre is a great place to start off your trip here because you can information on trek trails, sa (Read More)fety guidelines and other important information. The village also has many cute cafes and small convenience stores.

5. Bearly Spur Track

This 6-kilometre trail takes you to the top of the river to Bearly Hut, a landmark which acts as the summit. It is a 600-metre elevation and can be trekked by beginners as well as it is just a gradual (Read More) slope hike. One can stay at the Bearly Hut for free but its on first-comefirst-serve basis only.

Must Know Before You Travel to Arthur's Pass

1. For the winter months of May to November, it is recommended to winter-proof your vehicles by getting the snow chains fitted when visiting the Pass.

2. Although entry fees for both tourists, vehicles and the sights at the pass are free, there may be overnight charges for camping that are subjective.

3. It's an area that sees heavy rainfall almost the majorly through the year, it is highly recommended to bring raincoats and other waterproof gear when visiting, regardless of what the day's weather forecast says.

4. There are very few amenities for groceries, and no availability of hiking and camping equipment, as well as stove fuel here so whatever is needed, is to be brought before arriving.

5. The fuel prices at Arthurs Pass Village are inflated so fuel up your tank full before visiting.

6. Prebook all overnight accommodation during peak seasons as it's a popular tourist destination and will have no availability for last-minute bookings.

7. The roads are narrow and one should avoid speeding and must stick strictly to the left side of the road. Cyclists must wear high-visibility clothing.

8. Boots are not available on hire at the Pass and one must enquire before heading out to do any adventure activities for any precautions that the Park has made.

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