Craigieburn Forest Park

Craigieburn Forest Park is a rugged paradise on Canterbury’s eastern side of the Southern Alps, known for its dramatic limestone bluffs, ancient beech forests, and world-class mountain biking. This is a place where the elements feel raw – expect crisp alpine air, sudden weather changes, and trails that demand respect. It’s a favourite among adventurous travellers who prefer solitude over crowds, offering some of New Zealand’s most spectacular skiable terrain in winter and epic hiking in summer.

Highlights & What to See

• Craigieburn Valley Skifield – A legendary club skifield with steep chutes and incredible off-piste terrain; equally stunning in summer for its wildflower-dotted slopes.
• Broken River Ski Area – Another club field with a relaxed vibe, known for its vast backcountry bowls and the iconic rope tow.
• Craigieburn Forest Park walking tracks – The 2–3 hour Craigieburn Valley Track leads through towering beech forest to a historic hut, while the Hamilton Peak Track rewards with panoramic views of the Southern Alps.
• Mountain biking on the Craigieburn Trails – The Trans-Alpine Trail passes through the park, and the Craigieburn Forest Park MTB trails (like Whiskey Gully and Pinnacles) are among the best in the South Island, with flowy singletrack through tussock and limestone.
• Limestone formations at Castle Hill – Just south of the park, this otherworldly landscape of giant limestone boulders is a photographer’s dream and a sacred site for Ngāi Tahu.
• Kura Tawhiti Conservation Area – Adjacent to Castle Hill, this area offers bouldering and short walks among sculpted rock outcrops.

Suggested Time to Spend

Dedicate at least a full day to explore the park properly. If you’re keen on a single walk or a mountain bike loop, half a day can suffice, but the area rewards those who linger. For skiers, a day at one of the club fields is a must; in summer, combine a morning hike with an afternoon exploring Castle Hill. Overnight tramping is possible on longer routes like the Craigieburn–Temple Basin traverse – plan for two days if you want to immerse yourself in the backcountry.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Castle Hill – A 10-minute drive south, this iconic limestone wonderland is unmissable for its surreal boulders and short walking tracks.
• Arthur’s Pass National Park – Just 20 minutes north, this alpine park offers dramatic waterfalls, kea encounters, and the famous Devil’s Punchbowl Walk.
• Lake Pearson – A peaceful spot for a picnic, birdwatching, or a short stroll along the shore, located a few minutes south of the park.
• Porter Heights Skifield – Another club field nearby, with a more family-friendly vibe and great views over the Waimakariri River valley.
• Oxford – A charming town with a strong mountain-biking scene, home to the Oxford MTB Park and a good café stop on the way to Christchurch.

Please check official sources for current details.