Lake Lyndon

Lake Lyndon is a serene alpine lake nestled in the Southern Alps, just off the scenic Arthur's Pass route. Its turquoise waters, framed by golden tussock and rocky peaks, offer a peaceful retreat for those driving between Christchurch and the West Coast. The lake's exposed setting means it can be windy, but that only adds to the raw, untamed beauty of this high-country gem.

Highlights & What to See

• Scenic Drive & Photo Stops: The lake is easily accessible from State Highway 73, with several pull-offs offering stunning views of the water and surrounding mountains.
• Walking & Tramping: A short, easy track follows the shoreline, perfect for stretching your legs. For more adventurous hikers, the nearby Craigieburn Forest Park has trails through beech forest and alpine meadows.
• Fishing: Lake Lyndon is stocked with brown trout and rainbow trout, making it a popular spot for fly fishing. Check local regulations before casting a line.
• Birdwatching: Keep an eye out for black-backed gulls, paradise shelducks, and the occasional black stilt (kakī) in the shallows.
• Winter Activities: In winter, the frozen lake surface sometimes attracts ice skaters, but always check ice thickness and conditions first.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 30 minutes to an hour here, simply soaking in the views and taking photos. If you plan to walk the shoreline or fish, budget 1–2 hours. Lake Lyndon works best as a brief stop on a day trip through Arthur's Pass or as a picnic spot on a longer journey between the East Coast and West Coast.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Arthur's Pass National Park: Just 20 minutes' drive east, this alpine park offers dramatic mountain scenery, short walks, and the famous Arthur's Pass village.
• Castle Hill Conservation Area: Famous for its limestone rock formations, this is a 30-minute drive east and a must-see for photographers and climbers.
• Craigieburn Forest Park: Adjacent to Lake Lyndon, with excellent tramping tracks and the popular Cave Stream Scenic Reserve.
• Greymouth: The West Coast's largest town, about 1.5 hours west, with breweries, the Pancake Rocks at Punakaiki, and the start of the TranzAlpine train journey.
• Christchurch: 1.5 hours east, offering urban attractions, botanic gardens, and the Canterbury Museum.

Please check official sources for current details.