Image: Baptiste Maryns | ©
A high view over a clouded mountain valley, with three buildings in the foreground.
Temple Basin Track

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

A nature photographer’s dream, experience expansive mountain views and alpine birdlife on this track to Temple Basin.

This track starts from above the bush line at the Temple Basin car park, 5 km north of Arthur’s Pass Village. It zigzags steeply up the hill to an open tussock basin, ski-club buildings, and the Lockwood day shelter.

From November to February, the alpine flowers present in the alpine meadows are typically in bloom.

On a clear day you get magnificent views of Mt Rolleston/Kaimatau across the valley.

This track starts above the bush-line from the SH73 roadside carpark for Temple Basin ski-field, 5 km towards the West Coast from Arthur’s Pass township.

Be safe and be aware – this is mountain country.

  • Take warm clothing, a raincoat, sunhat, sunscreen, something to eat and drink and strong footwear (boots are recommended).
  • Check the weather forecast before you go. Be aware that mountain weather can change quickly.
  • Walking on tracks and routes above the bush-line (the upper edge of the forest) is recommended only in good weather conditions. This route is marked as far as the ski field. Above the bush-line you are exposed to the severity of the mountain weather.
  • When snow covers the ground, routes will be less obvious and there may also be a danger of avalanches. Snow climbing equipment is recommended.