Image: Brent Godsiff | Creative Commons
Small building by trees with person in front.
Sudden Valley Bivvy

Located in Arthur's Pass National Park in the Canterbury region

This is a basic two-bunk hut in the North Canterbury and Arthur's Pass area.

Fees

Free

This is a backcountry hut with no DOC track access. You will need to plan your route and navigate yourself, using aids like a map, compass and GPS. Learn navigation skills.

Flood damage on route to Sudden Valley Bivvy

The route to Sudden Valley Bivvy is not maintained and is only sporadically marked. It is only possible to reach the bivvy when the rivers are low as there are multiple river crossings.

Due to significant flood damage, much of the track has been washed away and great care is required on the climb to get around Barrier. Expect the trip to take longer than expected.

Location

NZTopo50 map sheet: BV21
Grid/NZTM2000 coordinates: E1494334, N5243986

Stay safe when crossing rivers and streams

If you plan to cross unbridged rivers or side streams, know how to cross safely and be prepared for if you cannot cross.

Do not cross if the river or stream is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop. If in doubt, stay out.

How to cross rivers safely

NIWA river flow forecasts: View a video of national followed by regional river flows

There may be avalanche danger

Avalanches usually occur from May to November in Arthur’s Pass National Park. There can also be avalanches outside this period, if there is still snow coverage.

Check the avalanche terrain in this area. 

If you are going into avalanche terrain, always:

  1. Have the relevant avalanche skills and training.
  2. Check the ATES rating and New Zealand Avalanche Advisory before you go. 
  3. Go with a buddy. Both of you should carry and know how to use an avalanche transceiver, a snow shovel and a probe.