Craigieburn Forest Park

Craigieburn Forest Park is a rugged alpine playground straddling the Southern Alps, where beech forests, scree slopes, and braided rivers create a landscape that feels both ancient and wild. This is a place for those who crave solitude and raw nature—think hiking trails that lead to tussock-covered ridges, limestone bluffs, and the chance to spot kea, New Zealand's cheeky alpine parrot. The park's proximity to the Canterbury high country makes it an easy detour off State Highway 73, yet it remains gloriously uncrowded.

Highlights & What to See

• Craigieburn Valley: A dramatic valley with limestone outcrops and the historic Craigieburn Station, offering walks through beech forest and along the river.
• Broken River Ski Area: A club ski field (winter only) with challenging slopes and stunning views—accessible via a 4WD road or a steep hike.
• Mount Cheeseman: Another club ski field with a relaxed vibe, great for intermediate skiers and snowboarders; in summer, the access road offers panoramic views.
• Lyndon Saddle Track: A moderate 2–3 hour return hike through mountain beech to a tussock saddle with sweeping views of the Waimakariri River valley.
• Cave Stream Scenic Reserve: A short walk leads to a limestone cave you can explore with a torch (requires a headlamp and sturdy shoes).
• Castle Hill: A nearby limestone boulder field with surreal rock formations, a favourite for bouldering and photography.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan for a full day to properly explore the park's highlights. If you're driving from Christchurch to the West Coast, a half-day stop is enough to tackle one short walk (like the Lyndon Saddle Track) and visit Castle Hill. For keen hikers or skiers, two days allow you to immerse yourself in the backcountry or hit the slopes in winter. The park is best enjoyed from December to March for hiking, and July to September for skiing.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Arthur's Pass National Park: Just 30 minutes north, with epic alpine hikes and the famous Otira Viaduct lookout.
• Castle Hill Conservation Area: A 15-minute drive east, with its otherworldly limestone formations and bouldering.
• Hokitika Gorge: A 1.5-hour drive west, where turquoise water flows through a narrow gorge—a classic West Coast sight.
• Christchurch: 1.5 hours east, the gateway city with gardens, markets, and post-earthquake redevelopment.
• Paparoa National Park: 2 hours west, home to the Pancake Rocks and blowholes at Punakaiki.

Please check official sources for current details.