Lake Sumner Forest Park

Lake Sumner Forest Park is a sprawling wilderness of beech forest, braided rivers, and pristine alpine lakes, tucked into the Southern Alps east of the West Coast. It's a haven for trampers, anglers, and anyone craving solitude amid New Zealand's backcountry. The park's centrepiece is Lake Sumner itself, a deep blue gem ringed by mountains, but the real draw is the network of tracks that lead into some of the most remote and rewarding landscapes on the South Island.

Highlights & What to See

• Lake Sumner – The park's namesake lake offers superb trout fishing, kayaking, and peaceful shoreline walks. The water is startlingly clear, reflecting the surrounding peaks.
• Hurricane Hut – A classic backcountry hut reached via the Hurunui No. 2 Track. The journey passes through ancient red beech forest and offers views of the Hurunui River valley.
• Harper Pass – A historic route used by Māori and early European gold miners. The tramp over the pass (part of Te Araroa Trail) is a multi-day adventure through alpine meadows and tussock lands.
• Boyle River – Renowned for fly-fishing, especially for brown trout. The river's clear waters and gravel beds make it a favourite among anglers.
• Hurunui River – Perfect for kayaking and rafting, with sections of Grade II–III rapids. The river winds through deep gorges and open valleys.
• Wildlife spotting – Keep an eye out for kea, falcons, and the occasional red deer. The park is also home to the endangered whio (blue duck) along its swift streams.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 2–4 days exploring Lake Sumner Forest Park, especially if tackling multi-day tramps like the Harper Pass route. A long weekend allows for a day drive to the lake, a night at a hut, and a day for fishing or short walks. If you're short on time, a day trip from Hanmer Springs or Christchurch is possible, but you'll only scratch the surface — the park rewards those who linger.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hanmer Springs – Just an hour's drive east, this alpine village is famous for its hot pools, mountain biking, and bungy jumping. A perfect post-tramp treat.
• Lewis Pass National Reserve – Adjacent to the park, this area offers more tramping, hot springs (Marble Hill), and the scenic Lewis Pass Highway.
• Arthur's Pass National Park – About two hours south, with dramatic alpine scenery, the famous Otira Viaduct, and the Devil's Punchbowl waterfall.
• Christchurch – The largest city in the South Island, 90 minutes east, with vibrant culture, gardens, and the Antarctic Centre.
• West Coast Glaciers (Fox and Franz Josef) – Three hours west, these iconic glaciers offer heli-hikes and ice climbing, a striking contrast to the forest park's interior.

Please check official sources for current details.