1.3 km one way
The track starts 1.9 km along the Broken River Ski-field Road from SH.73. There are very limited parking spaces at the track entrance (2 cars).
The track crosses a small unbridged creek, then climbs steeply, passing through an area of recently felled trial forestry plantings from 1956. A short track (5 min 200 m) leading to the Environment Centre carpark is met 10 minutes into the track.
The track crosses the upper Hut Creek, passing back into beech forest temporarily before sidling an open hillside with views of the Craigieburn Range. The track finishes at the Bridge Hill Road and gate.
This track connects to the Bridge Hill Track at the road gate (10 min one way).
Turns off State Highway 73 into the Broken River Skifield Road, around 108 km from Christchurch.
Broken River Ski-field Road is extremely narrow and winding, we recommend travelling slowly (20 kmph) to avoid collisions and to look for areas where two vehicles can get past each other.
In winter, this road may require tyre chains to access. We also recommend not travelling inwards on this road in the afternoons as there can be many vehicles exiting the ski-field.
There is no vehicle access to the Environment Centre. There are locked gates near Jack’s Pass, Bridge Hill and on SH.73 (Bridge Hill Road). Parking is very limited at all track-heads; do not block road access.
- No motorbikes
- No horses
Be ready for alpine weather
This is an alpine area and people should be prepared for extremes of weather. Always check the forecast before you go. Weather forecasts for Mt Cheeseman and Canterbury High Country
Carry warm layers, a waterproof raincoat and sun protection. Find packing lists here.
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.
No fires
No fires are allowed within Craigieburn Forest Park.
Be careful of cars if walking along the road
Some people walk this track as a loop walk, by following Broken River road back to their car from the track end. Be careful of cars and supervise children closely. The road can be busy during the ski season.
Arthur's Pass National Park Visitor Centre
Phone: | +64 3 318 9211 |
Email: | arthurspassvc@doc.govt.nz |
Address: | 104 West Coast Road Arthur's Pass 7654 |
Hours: | Visitor centre hours and services |