Crown Range Summit

Perched at 1,124 metres on the road between Queenstown and Wanaka, the Crown Range Summit is New Zealand's highest sealed road pass. The drive up is a thrill in itself—a series of tight switchbacks that climb through golden tussock hills, with views that just keep getting better. At the top, pull over at the small carpark and step out into the crisp mountain air. On a clear day, the panorama stretches from the Remarkables to the distant peaks of Mount Aspiring National Park, and the valley far below resembles a patchwork of farmland and braided rivers. It's a quick but unforgettable stop that rewards you with one of the best free viewpoints in the region.

Highlights & What to See

• The Summit Viewpoint – The main carpark offers a sweeping vista of the Cardrona Valley and the Southern Alps. It's a classic photo stop, especially in late afternoon when the light turns golden.
• Cardrona Hotel – Just a short drive down the Wanaka side, this historic gold-rush pub (circa 1863) is a must-stop for a cold beer, hearty meal, or a photo in front of its iconic verandah.
• Bra Fence – A quirky roadside attraction near Cardrona, where hundreds of bras have been strung on a fence since 1999. It's odd, photogenic, and raises funds for breast cancer research.
• Scenic Drive – The road itself is the attraction. Allow extra time to cruise the switchbacks, stop at the few lay-bys, and soak in the ever-changing views of the Cardrona River valley.
• Winter Snow Play – In winter (June–August), the summit often has snow at the edges; you can build a snowman or have a snowball fight without needing a ski pass. Chains may be required.

Suggested Time to Spend

A stop at the summit itself takes just 10–20 minutes—enough for photos and a deep breath of alpine air. But budget at least an hour for the full experience: driving the Crown Range Road from Queenstown to Wanaka (or vice versa) takes about 45 minutes one-way without stops, plus time for the Cardrona Hotel and the Bra Fence. It's best treated as a scenic half-day loop from either town, allowing for a leisurely lunch at the pub and plenty of photo stops.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Queenstown – The adventure capital, just 25 minutes from the summit's southern base. Combine with a bungy jump, lake cruise, or a night out at the bars.
• Wanaka – A relaxed lakeside town 30 minutes north of the summit. Visit Puzzling World, hike Roy's Peak, or simply enjoy the lakefront cafés.
• Cardrona Alpine Resort – A family-friendly ski field open in winter, with a historic base lodge and summer mountain biking trails.
• Arrowtown – A charming gold-rush town with tree-lined streets, boutique shops, and the Chinese settlement. It's a 15-minute detour off the Crown Range Road.
• Glenorchy – About an hour from Queenstown, this village at the head of Lake Wakatipu is the gateway to Paradise and offers stunning views of the Dart River Valley.

Please check official sources for current details.