Each week, we highlight our fave tramping trails in New Zealand for day and multi day hikes across Nelson Tasman (and beyond!)
Avalanche Peak, Arthur's Pass National Park
To be taken with great care especially in winter, Avalanche Peak is an epic day hike - it’s not for the faint hearted though - it’s steep AF but you are rewarded with the most incredible views.
- Distance: 7km round trip
- Elevation Gain: 1,100m
- Time: 5 - 8 hours return
Avalanche Peak is the only peak in Arthur’s Pass with a poled route marking your way all the way to the summit. Park at the Arthur’s Pass Visitor’s Centre, chat to the friendly team there and then hit the trail -but only attempt this one on a low wind day with good visibility.
There are two ways up, which makes an awesome loop route - head up Avalanche Peak track (yellow markers) and down Scott’s Track (orange markers) as this is a gentler downhill. If you are going to do an out and back, we recommend going up and down Scott’s Track as this is less steep and easier to descend.
Heading up Avalanche Peak track, the first ten minutes of the climb is a good indication of the steepness of this hike to come, with big boulders to walk over/scramble from the start. The climb is 1,100m over a 2.5km distance so it’s pretty much up, up, up.
The first hour takes you through the forest on a rugged track, past gorgeous waterfalls. Once you come out of the bush line, you are hit with some pretty awesome views of Arthur’s Pass and the peaks on the other side of the pass. From here, follow the poles up and along the ridgeline and take in the stunning views. It is exposed to the elements so be careful of the steep drops and do not attempt in high winds or poor visibility.
The last 250m vert gain is very steep, and crampons, ice axes and helmets are absolutely essential in winter. The summit at 1880m gives you amazing views of the Southern Alps. This is a spectacular day hike in summer, but only attempt if you have good mountaineering knowledge in winter.
