Little Criffel Track: Walking Guide, Time & Access

Route overview

This track is in the Pisa Conservation Area which lies between Wānaka and Cromwell.

This DOC directory entry covers Little Criffel Track in Otago, within Pisa Conservation Area. Where DOC groups several walks, times and grades refer to the listed options rather than a single continuous itinerary.

Distance, time and grade

• Distance: 19 km one way
• Walking time: 6–8 hr one way
• 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

From the Larches car park, the Cardrona River to the Little Criffel section of track is closed annually for lambing from 1 October to 1 November inclusive.

Dog access

No dogs. Other pets on conservation land rules.

Description

Avalon car park to Little Criffel Summit

Time: 3–4 hrsDistance: 9 km

The route up to 1,341 m Little Criffel from Avalon car park is on a steep and unformed track. It provides a good opportunity for fit, experienced walkers to enjoy extensive views over the Upper Clutha Basin. It also gives a spectacular panorama of the Southern Alps/Kā Tiritiro o te Moana.

From the car park, cross the Cardrona River and follow the markers and stiles up the hill to the summit of Little Criffel.

Little Criffel Summit to The Larches car park

Time: 3–4 hrsDistance:10 km

The marked route between the summit of Little Criffel and the Larches car park is mostly on a 4WD track apart from where it crosses through the Larches Conservation Area. This conservation area is a small pocket of shrubland dominated by kānuka, matagouri and native broom.

A special lease area provides access between two sections of the Pisa Conservation Area – there are no marked tracks in this section to follow.

Mountain biking

Mountain biking is permitted on the Larches track. This is an advanced level rated cycle track that involves some steep climbs and poor traction. Some sections will require riders to get off their bikes and walk.

Getting there

Access to/from the route is signposted from either the Larches car park (9.5 km from Wānaka) or the Avalon car park (12 km from Wānaka); Cardrona Valley Road.

Know before you go

• In summer very hot and dry conditions are common. Carry an adequate supply of both drinking water and sun protection.

• Alpine conditions may be experienced at any time of the year, with the higher country being subject to snow during the winter months.

• Access to the Pisa Conservation Area via Little Criffel Track is an easement over private land. Dogs are not allowed on the access track. Dogs pose a serious risk to stock and the spreading of fatal sheep measles.

Take extreme care when crossing the Cardrona River, especially after rain.

Stay safe when crossing rivers and streams

If you plan to cross unbridged rivers or side streams, know how to cross safely and be prepared for if you cannot cross.

Do not cross if the river or stream is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop. If in doubt, stay out.

How to cross rivers safely

NIWA river flow forecasts: View a video of national followed by regional river flows

Be avalanche alert

Avalanches can occur in any season. Any time that snow and steep slopes are combined there is potential for an avalanche. You need to understand the risks before you visit avalanche-prone country.

This area has terrain that can produce avalanches that cross the track, usually from May into November. View avalanche information and the terrain rating for this track.

• The steep section of the track before you enter the conservation area may be subject to avalanche danger in winter.

Private property and permissions

This track crosses private land. There is no camping until the conservation area boundary.

Respect the landowner's livestock and property:

• Stay on the marked track until you reach the conservation land

• Leave gates as you find them

• Use stiles where provided

• Keep your distance from livestock.

Dogs

You need permission from the Makarora River Ranch to take your dog into Hāwea Conservation Park using Boundary Creek Track. Email makaroraranch@gmail.com at least 24 hours in advance of your visit to request permission. You must provide a valid worming certificate to ensure your dog is free from hydatids and sheep measles.

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.