Avalanche Peak is a popular destination in Arthur’s Pass National Park, and it’s no wonder why. The peak is easily accessible right from the village, the track up is well marked, and the views are simply amazing. However, it is probably one of the most underestimated mountains in New Zealand. Being well-known doesn’t mean it’s easy, especially in the winter.
I have climbed Avalanche peak a few times, yet it always surprises me how scrambly it is just to reach the bushline. From the bushline, the snow started. It got progressively deeper, and I had to take out my ice axe at around the 1500m contour. The last stretch, between about 1700-1800m, usually has deep snow, and today was no exception. The snow was up to a metre deep but relatively easy to walk through, and I soon found myself on the ridge leading to the summit. The last section on the ridge can be a bit tricky in snow, as it’s quite narrow and can be confusing to navigate between the large boulders.
I reached the top in about 2.5 hours. I took Scott’s Track down and was back in the village about 4 hours and 20 minutes after leaving. It was a pretty epic day with beautiful light and vistas.
Stats: 8.5 km, 4 h 20 min, 1100 m ascent
Tramped on 21st June 2024.
Route on NZ Topo map (download below)
Photos
Map
Max elevation: 1824 m
Min elevation: 746 m
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