By Outdoor Next Editorial standards
On this page
Key facts
- Distance
- Not confirmed on the checked DOC page; see individual route sections
- Walking time
- 1-2 hr
- Track grade
- Expert
- Location
- Craigieburn Forest Park
- Dog access
- Dogs allowed. Keep dog under control at all times. Other pets on conservation land rules.
Checked against official sources on 8 October 2026. Rules and conditions are set by Department of Conservation — confirm with them before you go.
Route overview
A challenging, unmarked route to Leith Hill summit, suitable only for fit, experienced and well-prepared trampers.
This DOC directory entry covers Leith Hill (1384 m) climb 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: 1-2 hr
- 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
From the high point on the loop track, fit, experienced, well-prepared parties could climb to the summit of Leith Hill on an unmarked route. This should only be attempted in good visibility, and when there is no snow on the ground.
Climb the steep scrub covered hillside to the southwest, on reaching the more open ridge continue climbing the obvious ridge, avoiding the loose ground and steep gullies where necessary. The overall climb to the summit ascends 370 m over 1 km. Return the same way.
The route up Leith Hill is not a DOC track and DOC does not maintain it or manage hazards there.
The climbing time provided does not include the time needed to walk to the top of Leith Hill Loop.
Getting there
This track begins from the high point of the Leith Hill Loop Track.
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. Weather forecasts for Mt Cheeseman and Canterbury High Country
Carry warm layers, a waterproof raincoat and sun protection. Find packing lists here.
This is an avalanche area
If snow is present, be avalanche aware.
This unmarked route enters avalanche terrain. If there is snow on the steep slopes of 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.
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.
