A comfortably challenging weekend tramp

This trip is in the dry mountains east of the Main Divide. It crosses riverbeds and rivers, follows forest tracks and crosses two saddles. For a challenging weekend tramp, there is a comfortable 20 bunk hut midway, or take 3–4 days by staying in some of the other basic huts on the route.

The track is not marked all the way, so ensure you take a topo map with you. Most trampers prefer to begin the track from the Cass end, as this avoids the steepest ascents. Not all rivers and streams are bridged, so they may be impassable after heavy rainfall.

Summer is the best season for this track

Because of the high avalanche danger and the frequency of winter snowfalls, this route is best attempted from late spring to early autumn.

There is simple avalanche terrain on the Cass-Lagoon Saddle Track from Bealey Hut to Hamilton Hut, and complex avalanche terrain from the Cass River SH73 road end to Hamilton Hut.

All times are one way unless otherwise stated.

Cass car park to Cass Saddle Hut

Time: 4 hours one way

From the signposted car park at the east end of the Cass River road bridge, follow the vehicle track next to the row of pine trees until it meets Cass River.

Follow the riverbed upstream, keeping to the true right bank as much as possible. You will need to cross the river several times. The track climbs into the forest at a marked point just below the junction with Long Valley Stream; it is easy to miss if you are on the wrong side of Cass River so stay on the true right. The river is crossed again via a bridge, then the track climbs for another 20–30 minutes before crossing the river again.

Cass Saddle Hut is reached soon after you have crossed to the true right bank. It has three bunks and a wood burning stove. Water can be obtained from a small stream just to the south-east of the hut.

Cass Saddle Hut to Hamilton Hut

Time: 2 hours 30 minutes one way

The tussock basin above Cass Saddle Hut is reached shortly after leaving the hut, and the poled route climbs gradually to the saddle. Hamilton Hut can be seen in the distance down the valley. Traverse left for 200 metres to the start of the cut track.

This is an area of high avalanche risk. Avalanches frequently cross the entire Cass Saddle area in winter. During heavy snow conditions, we advise visitors not to travel this route.

The track drops steeply from the saddle, and then more gently through the bush terraces, joining Hamilton Creek 15 minutes from Hamilton Hut. The 20 bunk hut has a wood burning stove and a radio linked to Arthur's Pass Visitor Centre. Calls can be made during office hours to obtain weather forecasts.

Side trip: The Pinnacles

Time: 4–6  hours return

In the lower Harper valley, erosion has formed an interesting geological feature that makes a worthwhile side trip from Hamilton Hut.

The Pinnacles were made from geologically young rock, about 3–7 million years ago, consisting of alluvial sands and gravels. Erosion, caused by rain water washing away the exposed soil, has formed the pinnacle shapes. Pebbles or small stones may be seen on the tops of the pinnacles, temporarily protecting them from erosion. Nearby, the Harper River has exposed older rocks containing marine fossils.

The route to The Pinnacles is down the Harper River from Hamilton Creek, following the Te Araroa Trail, initially on a walking track, then a 4WD track. The Harper River needs to be crossed several times – crossings should not be attempted if the river is high. The 4WD track crosses private farmland; please do not disturb any stock. The Pinnacles are set back a short way on the true right bank.

Hamilton Hut to West Harper Hut

Time: 2 hours 30 minutes one way

From Hamilton Hut to Bealey Hut, you are in simple avalanche terrain. Even though the track is in the forest, avalanches can reach the track from the mountains above. The greatest risk in this section is from Harper River to Lagoon Saddle Hut, as avalanches can travel from the Mt Bruce ridges to the track. Read more about avalanche risk in the Know Before You Go section or on this webpage.

The route crosses Hamilton Creek at the footbridge 10 minutes downstream from Hamilton Hut and leads to a swing bridge across Harper River, a short distance above its confluence with Hamilton Creek.

After crossing the swing bridge, the route continues upstream on the true right of the river to West Harper Hut. In fine weather and suitable conditions, the riverbed offers an easy alternative with several fine swimming holes along the way. West Harper Hut (a hut built in the 1950s) has five canvas bunks, a fireplace and a dirt floor.

Side trip: Mirror Tarn

Time: 20 minutes return

A side trip can be made to Mirror Tarn while en route to West Harper Hut. About 20 m beyond the Hamilton Creek bridge is the sign to Mirror Tarn. Follow the marked track steeply uphill for about 10 minutes to reach the tarn.

West Harper Hut to Lagoon Saddle Hut

Time: 2–3 hours one way

From West Harper Hut the track bypasses a small gorge to reach river flats which are then followed to the confluence of Long Creek and Harper River. Follow the markers up the Harper riverbed for approximately 500 metres and then a formed track on the true left climbs steadily to Lagoon Saddle Shelter. Lagoon Saddle Hut is located just across the river and has two bunks and mattresses.

Lagoon Saddle Hut to Bealey Hut and SH73

Time: 2–3 hours one way

From Lagoon Saddle Hut the track gradually climbs through patches of beech forest above the tarns on Lagoon Saddle. It is marked by poles and markers.

Once on the northern face of Mount Bruce, the track descends through tussock and gives views of the snow-capped peaks of Arthur’s Pass National Park and the braided Waimakariri River.

The track descends through beech and exotic forest to Bealey Hut (six bunks). A further 5 minute walk from the hut takes you to the car park by Cora Lynn Station, and another 2 minutes to SH73.

If you are walking this route in reverse, take the Cora Lynn Road to the Arthur's Pass Wilderness Lodge and Cora Lynn Station and enter through the gate signposted ‘Cass – Lagoon Track’. Note that times may be longer on the uphill sections of the track when walking in this direction.

Both track entrances are alongside State Highway 73 (SH73) between Christchurch and Arthur’s Pass. Some bus services from Christchurch to the West Coast will drop you off by arrangement.

The Cass River end of the track starts from the signposted car park at the east end of the Cass road bridge, opposite Cass settlement. This car park is frequently targeted by vandals and thieves. Alternatively, you can park at the marked car park at Cass settlement and walk 1 km along the gravel road to the start of the track on SH73.

To reach the western end of the track, turn off SH73 about 14 km east of Arthur’s Pass village, onto Cora Lynn Road. This road also leads to the Arthur’s Pass Wilderness Lodge and Cora Lynn Station. There is a car park here for trampers through the gate signposted ‘Cass – Lagoon Track’.

Experience: Suitable for trampers with moderate experience.

Best season: Late spring, summer, early autumn. There are frequent snowfalls in winter and high avalanche danger on Cass Saddle.

Required maps: NZTopo50 Otira BV20, Cass BV21, Lake Coleridge BW20.

Note: True left and true right refer to the side of the valley or river when facing and looking downstream.

Safety

Hazards: Avalanche, flooded rivers

This route guide must be read in conjunction with Tramping in Arthur's Pass National Park, a free brochure with important safety information, and New Zealand's Outdoor Safety Code. Before setting out, check the latest track conditions and avalanche advisory with the Arthur's Pass Visitor Centre.

Your safety is your responsibility. Before you go, know the Outdoor Safety Code – 5 simple rules to help you stay safe:

1. Plan your trip properly – Ensure that you have a capable leader.
2. Tell someone – Leave your trip details with a trusted contact or at www.adventuresmart.org.nz.
3. Check the weather – Including www.avalanche.net.nz and the latest information on hazards and facilities before you start.
4. Know your limits – Physical fitness and good equipment will make all the difference.
5. Take sufficient supplies – Carry a sleeping bag, cooking utensils, sufficient food, raincoat, overtrousers, gloves, hat, and several layers of warm clothes.

There may be avalanche danger

Check the avalanche terrain in this area. 

Avalanches are most common from May to November in the Craigieburn Range. There can also be avalanches outside this period, if there is still snow coverage.

Check the avalanche danger before you go on the New Zealand Avalanche Advisory.

If you are going into avalanche terrain, always:

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

Stay safe when crossing rivers

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

Do not cross if the river 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

Thieves targeting cars at Arthur's Pass

There have been reports of cars being broken into and disabled at track ends.

• Don't leave valuables in your vehicle.
• Consider using more public parking sites – ask at the Arthur's Pass Visitor Centre for alternative options.
• Report any suspicious activity to police on +64 3 363 7400.