Mount Cloudsley (2107 m) climb: Walking Guide, Time & Access

Route overview

A challenging, unmarked route to Mt Cloudsley summit, suitable only for fit, experienced and well-prepared trampers.

This DOC directory entry covers Mount Cloudsley (2107 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: 4.2 km one way
• Walking time: 2 - 4 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 junction of the Easy Up track and the Hogs Back Track, fit, experienced, well-prepared parties could climb to the summit of Mt Cloudsley on an unmarked route via Long Spur. This should only be attempted in good visibility, and when there is no snow on the ground.

From the fence line near the end of the Easy Up track, initially follow the rough non-DOC track on its left side for about 150 m before climbing the hillside through tussock and scrub towards the obvious open ridge above. The ridge is easily followed.

Ridge vegetation is lost at 1500 m, continuing on scree and through short sections of rocky outcropping. At the 1855 m point, follow the ascending ridge for a further 1.1 km to the broad, open summit.

From Mt Cloudsley there are spectacular views south into the headwaters of the Wilberforce and Rakaia Rivers, and an expansive view towards the Torlesse Range and Castle Hill Peak. Return the same way.

The route up Mt Cloudsley is not a DOC track and DOC does not maintain it or manage hazards there.

Getting there

This unmarked route can be accessed from Hogs Back Track.

Know before you go

This is a challenging trip, make sure you have the skills and experience for it

This trip is best suited to fit, well-prepared and experienced trampers.

Only attempt this trip when there is good visibility

Fog/mist/cloud will make it very difficult to find the route and navigate your way up Mt Cloudsley. It is easy to get lost there in low visibility conditions.

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.