Arthur’s Pass is one of the ultimate road trips to complete while exploring the South Island of New Zealand. Enjoy stunning views, fun activities and discover the history of the area whilst journeying through the landscape.
Besides, if you’re planning a South Island road trip, this pass absolutely needs to be on your itinerary as there are so many things you can see and do. From waterfalls to lookouts, you can tailor the experience to your liking and enjoy the pass in your own style!
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about visiting the gorgeous region of Arthur’s Pass.
Where is Arthur’s Pass?
Arthur’s Pass is a part of the South Island of New Zealand. Moreover, it is one of the most famous road trips between Christchurch and the West Coast of New Zealand.
The pass is only about 45 kilometres long but usually takes around 3 hours to complete. However, if you plan to take stops, you may want to add more time to complete this road trip! I’d recommend allowing a day to complete the pass if you’re going to check out some of the sights along the way.
Is Arthur’s Pass Worth it?
Arthur’s Pass is arguably one of the better drives in New Zealand, so yes, it is absolutely worth doing! The mountainscapes are stunningly beautiful, and the drive is very interesting with loads of beautiful landscapes to look at.
Not to mention, there are multiple activities to enjoy along the way and the drive isn’t too long so it can be completed in a day!
Where to Stay On Arthur’s Pass
There are a handful of places you could stay along Arthur’s Pass, however, I’d recommend staying within Arthur’s Pass Village. Moreover, this is in the middle of the road trip and there are a number of things you can do while in the area.
Firstly, if you’re on a budget or using a motorhome, I’d recommend staying at Avalanche Creek Shelter. Moreover, this is an excellent location to make use of your DOC camping pass or pay the small nightly fee to park up.
I will note that the facilities are pretty basic, however, there is a flushing toilet available and a shelter where you can do some cooking. Finally, this is the best spot for camping in Arthur’s Pass.
Secondly, the Alpine Motel tends to be a hit with most travellers. The rooms are nice and comfortable and it’s only a short walk into town.
9 Best Things to Do in Arthur’s Pass
Otira Viaduct Lookout
First up on the list is the Otira Viaduct Lookout and, this is an absolute banger of a spot! In order to reach this lookout, you’ll need to come up a rather steep hill and then take the gravel road to head up to the lookout. It’s super easy to reach, and you’ll have no problem finding it.
You will get to look out over the incredible curvy bridge, with the stunning Otira River running below. Moreover, this is an awesome place to view the gorge and enjoy the seasonal snow-capped mountains.
Finally, you may receive a visit from a Kea. These are native New Zealand birds and they tend to have quite the personality! Keep food out of reach, and other valuables out of sight. These birds are quite clever and might take off with some of your goods!
Tip: It can get extremely windy and cold up here, so wear a jacket and beanie while enjoying the views outside!
Bealey Valley Track
Bealey Valley Track takes you on an escapade through a multitude of landscapes. Moreover, you will get the opportunity to view mossy trees, snow-capped mountains, icy-cold rivers, forest tracks and expansive mountainscapes.
There is so much to enjoy along this short and sweet 2.5km return journey. And, I absolutely recommend adding it to your itinerary.
Finally, be sure to check out Jacks Hut along the way, a shelter originally built in 1879. You can learn a little more about the historical location with information posts.
Devils Punchbowl Waterfall
The Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls that I came across while exploring the South Island of New Zealand.
For the most part, the waterfall is an elegant single-drop and creates an extended and stunning veil-like effect. Not to mention, the rocks look perfectly placed as if nature knew it would become a hotspot for an Insta shot.
Additionally, the walk to and from is truly beautiful as you walk amongst the forest with views over the valley. However, there are a lot of steps and a number of them are quite steep. Come prepared with comfortable walking shoes!
Avalanche Peak
If you’re up for a challenge, look no further than Avalanche Peak. Expect six to eight hours of hiking to reach the summit with 1100 metres in elevation gain.
The views at the top are immaculate, with expansive mountainscapes and potentially snowcapped mountains. You will also enjoy the Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfall from above which is an absolute treat!
The track is considerably rocky, and you’re likely to make friends with a few Keas along the way. Be sure to prepare yourself well for this hike as it’s not to be taken lightly!
Tip: Please check the official DOC website prior to hiking for trail information. There may be some recommendations to avoid attempting the trail on certain days.
Avalanche Creek Waterfall
Avalanche Creek Waterfall is a beautiful location to visit and is nice and close to the village. The waterfall has a few tiers and then finishes with a large stunning turquoise pool at the base.
Additionally, it’s an easy 10-minute walk to reach the waterfall. Therefore, making it the ultimate stopover location when visiting Arthur’s Pass, (and a great way to let the kids burn some energy).
Arthur’s Pass National Park Visitor Centre
Learn a little more about the geography and history of the area at the informative visitor centre. You can read up a heap of information and things to do while completing the pass and chat with the staff on recommendations for your visit.
Not to mention, there are loads of old photographs displaying the history of the village. This is a great spot for children and adults to learn a little more about the region.
Arthur’s Pass Store
Fancy a bite to eat? Look no further than the Arthur’s Pass store. Moreover, this little gem is jam-packed with almost anything you could wish to nibble on! From pies and pastries to sandwiches and burgers, you can find just about anything in this spot.
Additionally, there is a bottle shop and a small general store if you need to pick up a few basic items while en route. Be sure to support the locals and purchase a few goodies!
Arthur’s Pass Scenic Lookout
This scenic lookout is a beautiful spot to stop for a few moments and enjoy sweeping views over the country and mountainside. During the cooler months, you’ll likely be able to catch some snowcapped mountains which look stunning in the distance.
Furthermore, there’s plenty of space for parking in the gravel area, and you can wander down to the river to enjoy the icy-cold water.
Castle Hill Conservation Area
Last but not least, is the incredibly unique Castle Hill Conservation Area. And, to be honest, I think this was my favourite locations while completing the pass. I hadn’t seen anything like this before and it was a one-of-a-kind spot!
The shape of the boulders is pretty impressive and it’s humbling to walk amongst these towering formations. Not to mention, there are loads of informative signposts that discuss the geology, history and significance of the area.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, Arthur’s Pass is an excellent road trip on the South Island of New Zealand and is well worth the journey. There’s so much to see along this drive and so many great spots to pull over and enjoy.
If you’re on the fence in regards to completing this road trip, I would advise completing it. Since there are multiple points of interest, it makes the drive easy and fun to complete.
Finally, if you want to discover more about New Zealand, feel free to check out this section of my blog. I upload a range of posts with places to visit and things to do for the best travel advice!
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