Cons Track: Walking Guide, Time & Access

Route overview

This steep, rugged track leads to the bushline on Mt Cassidy. It is suitable for experienced trampers only.

This DOC directory entry covers Cons Track in Canterbury, within Arthur's Pass National Park. Where DOC groups several walks, times and grades refer to the listed options rather than a single continuous itinerary.

Distance, time and grade

• Distance: 2 km (475 m vertical climb) to the bushline return via same track
• Walking time: 2-4 hr return to the bushline
• DOC grade: Advanced

Access and alerts

Source checked 2026-10-08. This page is a dated snapshot, not a live track-status report. Check current DOC route information immediately before travelling. An absence of listed alerts does not establish that a route is open.

Seasonal restrictions

During winter, this area may be covered in snow. Avalanches can cross the track.

Dog access

No dogs. Other pets on conservation land rules.

Description

This steep and difficult track follows a steep crested ridge from the north side of Punchbowl Creek to the bushline. The track gains a lot of height in a short distance and is suited to people with good fitness. It is uneven and you will need to scramble over tree roots.

This track ends at the bushline, where the terrain is very steep with bluffs and cliff faces that can be hidden by clouds.

Do not try to take alternative routes to the village by walking off-track in the bush or following streams. There are steep cliffs.

In winter, there are additional hazards including snow, freezing temperatures and avalanche risk. Avalanche paths are not marked but avalanches can cross the track.

There is no track to the Mount Cassidy summit

There is no track or marked route above the bushline to the top of Mount Cassidy. Do not proceed beyond this point unless you are an experienced and well-equipped tramper. You need a high level of alpine tramping experience to continue to the top, including route-finding, map reading and survival skills.

Avalanche Peak is an alternative trip that does have marked routes to the summit. It also requires good weather, fitness, experience and preparation.

Above the bushline on Mount Cassidy, the terrain is very steep with fall risks. The summit is a considerable distance from the end of the track. Be ready to turn back if the weather worsens or navigation becomes difficult.

Getting there

Start on the Devils Punchbowl Walking Track at the northern end of Arthur's Pass village, just off SH73.

Know before you go

This track is for experienced trampers

It is steep and rugged. Stay on the track by following the orange markers. Share your plans with a trusted contact.

Be prepared for delays or an unexpected night out. Carry warm and waterproof clothes, an emergency shelter, spare food, a torch with extra batteries, a distress beacon, and a fully charged mobile phone.

Walking above the bushline

If you plan to go above the bushline, you need to seek advice from Arthur’s Pass Visitor Centre staff before going on your trip. There is no marked track above the bushline.

What to take

Take a compass and map, and know how to use them. Conditions can change rapidly and you may need these for navigation if visibility deteriorates.

Do not proceed above the bushline on to the open tops unless you have sturdy footwear, a waterproof parka and spare warm clothing including warm headwear and gloves.

Weather

Check the Arthur's Pass National Park weather forecast before you go. Walking above the bushline is recommended only in good weather conditions as you need good visibility to find your way. Above the bushline you are very exposed to the severity of the mountain weather.

If it is raining, stormy or there is low cloud around the mountains, there will probably be no views above the bushline. Conditions will be unpleasant at best and dangerous at worst.

Expect snow, ice and avalanche risk in winter

This track can be covered in snow in winter. When snow is present, you will need an ice axe, crampons, an avalanche transceiver, probe and shovel, plus avalanche assessment skills.

One or more avalanche paths cross this track. Avalanches are more likely to cross the track during and after heavy snow or rain when there is already a lot of snow on the high mountains. The avalanche paths on this track are not marked.

You can find a video series, Avalanche Tips and Terms: From the forecast to the field, on the NZ Avalanche Advisory website

Sources and reuse

Route descriptions and practical information reproduced from the Department of Conservation, Crown copyright, under CC BY 4.0, subject to DOC's copyright policy. Formatting has been adapted, including flattening page sections; follow the original DOC page for maps, section-specific layout, current notices and linked documents. Outdoor Next is independent and is not endorsed by DOC.

The accompanying photograph is a licensed general hiking illustration, not a photograph of this route.