Craigieburn ski field tramping: Walking Guide, Time & Access

Route overview

Explore Craigieburn ski field in summer, with informal, unmarked routes suitable for fit and experienced trampers.

This DOC directory entry covers Craigieburn ski field tramping in Canterbury, within Craigieburn Forest 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: Not confirmed on the checked DOC page; see individual route sections
• Walking time: 5 - 6 hr return tramp to main ridge
• DOC grade: Expert

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.

Dog access

Dogs allowed. Keep dog under control at all times. Other pets on conservation land rules.

Description

During the summer months there is walking access up to the Craigieburn ski field basin. This area is harsh and alpine and should be treated with respect. Always check the forecast and come prepared for both heat and cold.

Beyond the bush-line there are no marked routes. If you plan to go to this area, carry a map and compass.

From the locked gate it is an easy walk up the road to the lower Craigieburn ski field huts (about 1 hour). The access road continues up the steep valley and fit trampers can reach the 1923 metre Hamilton Peak.

It is possible to traverse the ridge to Nervous Knob and down into the Broken River ski field basin, but this is for experienced trampers and climbers only. You must arrange transport to make this crossing.

Getting there

Turns off State Highway 73 onto Craigieburn Valley Road, around 110 km from Christchurch. The road is signposted, including with a sign towards Craigieburn Valley Ski Area. Follow this road towards the ski field until you reach the locked gate.

Know before you go

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.

Carry warm layers, a waterproof raincoat and sun protection. Find packing lists here.

If snow is present, be avalanche aware

When there is snow on the steep slopes above the route you are taking, there can be avalanches. We recommend choosing times without snow to visit this area for tramping.

If you are considering tramping here when snow is present on the upper slopes, check the NZ Avalanche Advisory for Craigieburn Range.

Pick the right track for you

These untracked routes need navigation skills and route-finding confidence, as well as good fitness. We recommend people without this pick alternative tracks in the area.

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.

Dog access

Dogs are not permitted in the operational areas of the ski fields during winter, while the ski fields are open. This is because the presence of dogs can severely impact the work of avalanche rescue dogs.

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.