Photo: Dirk Pons / CC BY 4.0
For a taste of the alpine scenery that made Hanmer Springs famous without breaking a sweat, the Jollies Pass Road Walk is a gem. This leisurely stroll follows a gravel road through golden tussock and mountain beech forest, offering sweeping views of the Hanmer Basin and the surrounding Southern Alps. It's a walk that rewards you with big landscapes for little effort, perfect for a morning or afternoon wander when you need a break from the thermal pools.
Highlights & What to See
- Panoramic Vistas: The track climbs gently to a saddle where the views open up over the Hanmer Plains and the distant Seaward Kaikōura Range – a classic photo op.
- Alpine Flora: In spring and summer, the roadside is dotted with wildflowers, and the beech forest provides a cool, bird-filled canopy.
- Dog-Friendly Stroll: This is one of the few walks in the area where you can bring your four-legged friend on a lead, making it a hit with travelling pet owners.
- Mountain Biking Option: The road is also a popular mountain bike trail, so keep an ear out for bells and enjoy the shared use.
- Birdlife: Listen for the chime of bellbirds and the cheeky chatter of fantails flitting through the undergrowth.
Suggested Time to Spend
Allow 1–2 hours for the return walk (about 4 km each way), depending on how often you stop for photos. It's an easy, flat grade, so you can pair it with a soak at the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools or a picnic lunch at the saddle. Most visitors do it as a half-day outing, leaving the rest of the day for other Hanmer activities.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa: The ultimate post-walk reward – soak tired muscles in natural mineral water.
- Conical Hill Walk: A short, steep climb from the village centre with 360-degree views of the basin.
- Hanmer Heritage Forest: A network of easy trails through redwood and Douglas fir groves, great for a family ramble.
- Waiau Ferry Bridge: A historic suspension bridge over the Waiau River, perfect for a leg-stretch and river views.
- Mt Isobel Track: For more ambitious hikers, this challenging day hike offers superb ridge-line views.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.