Crown Range Road

The Crown Range Road is New Zealand's highest sealed highway, winding between Queenstown and Wanaka through dramatic alpine scenery. This 47-kilometer stretch offers hairpin bends, sweeping views of the Cardrona Valley, and a sense of adventure that makes it a must-do for drivers seeking an alternative to the longer State Highway 6. In winter, snow can dust the peaks, while summer brings golden tussock and clear skies – just be prepared for steep gradients and occasional one-lane bridges.

Highlights & What to See

• Cardrona Hotel – Stop at this historic gold-rush-era pub for a cold drink and a photo of its iconic facade.
• Bra Fence – A quirky roadside attraction near Cardrona, where hundreds of bras have been strung up since 1999.
• Cardrona Alpine Resort – In winter, this ski field offers excellent skiing and snowboarding; in summer, take the chairlift for panoramic views.
• Summit Views – The Crown Range Summit at 1,076 m provides breathtaking vistas of the Southern Alps and Lake Wanaka.
• Arrowtown – A charming gold-mining settlement just off the road, with historic cottages, boutique shops, and autumn colours.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow at least 1.5 hours for the drive without stops, but plan for 3-4 hours to fully enjoy the attractions. Start from Queenstown in the morning, take a lunch break at the Cardrona Hotel, and continue to Wanaka for an afternoon lakeside stroll. If you're skiing, allocate a full day for Cardrona Alpine Resort. The road is best done as part of a Queenstown-Wanaka day trip or a scenic detour on a longer South Island itinerary.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Wanaka – Just 30 minutes from the end of the road, this lakeside town offers hiking, water sports, and the famous Wanaka Tree.
• Queenstown – The adventure capital, with bungee jumping, jet boats, and vibrant dining – a 20-minute drive from the southern start of the road.
• Glenorchy – A scenic 45-minute drive from Queenstown, with trails through beech forest and views of Mount Aspiring National Park.
• Arrowtown – Easily combined with a Crown Range drive; explore the Chinese settlement and gold-panning history.
• Cardrona Valley – Besides the ski field, the valley offers hiking and mountain biking trails in summer.

Please check official sources for current details.