Lewis Pass

Lewis Pass is a remote and dramatic alpine crossing on State Highway 7, connecting the Nelson Lakes region to the West Coast. This is New Zealand at its rawest — dense beech forest, rushing rivers, and jagged peaks that seem to swallow the road. Unlike the more famous Arthur's Pass, Lewis Pass feels genuinely wild and uncrowded, perfect for travellers craving solitude and unspoiled nature.

Highlights & What to See

• Maruia Falls — A powerful waterfall cascading into a turquoise plunge pool, formed by the 1929 Murchison earthquake. A short walk leads to a viewing platform.
• Lewis Pass Scenic Reserve — Stop at the summit carpark for short trails through ancient alpine herb fields and tarns. In summer, the alpine flowers are stunning.
• Maruia Springs Thermal Resort — Soak in natural hot pools set among native forest, a blissful break after a long drive.
• St James Walkway — A 67-km multi-day tramp through alpine valleys and historic musterers' huts. Even a short day hike from the road end offers a taste of this epic landscape.
• Wildlife spotting — Look out for kea, tui, and the occasional red deer along the roadside at dawn or dusk.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most travellers cross Lewis Pass in a day as part of a journey between Nelson and the West Coast. But to really appreciate it, stop for at least 2–3 hours to do a short walk (like the summit trail) and visit Maruia Falls. If you're keen on the St James Walkway or a soak at Maruia Springs, plan for a half-day or overnight stay. The pass itself is about a 1.5-hour drive from end to end without stops.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hanmer Springs — A 30-minute drive south, offering more thermal pools, mountain biking, and the Hanmer Springs Adventure Centre.
• Murchison — A small town on the Buller River, famous for whitewater rafting and kayaking, just 40 minutes north.
• Nelson Lakes National Park — Head east from the pass for tramping, kayaking on Lake Rotoiti, and the famous Lake Angelus hut.
• Reefton — A historic gold-mining town on the West Coast side, with heritage trails and the nearby Victoria Conservation Park.
• Blenheim — The heart of Marlborough wine country, about a 2-hour drive northeast via the Wairau Valley.

Please check official sources for current details.