Avalanche Peak: 1,100m Vertical Climb In 2.5km | Arthur’s Pass

There are two routes up Avalanche Peak, only to be joined 100 meters before the peak. First is the Avalanche Peak Track trailhead near Avalanche Creek Waterfall, and the other is the Scotts Track trailhead opposite of Arthur’s Pass Walking Track. They start in Arthur’s Pass Village and are just 700 meters apart from one another. Both routes have similar distance but the first one is more challenging due to having more steep rocky parts to climb over, and higher possibilities of encountering snow covered paths. The latter has a milder, “smoother”, and less intimidating tussock-covered path.

You can choose to make it a round trip or to return using the same way as you go up. A round trip is excellent for hikers who want to experience different sceneries of both routes. It is recommended to start from Avalanche Peak Track (clockwise) as it’s less risky to climb up the steep rocky paths than to come down from them. Coming down via Scotts Track gives you constant good views of the opposite forest and mountains and also the dramatic Devil’s Punchbowl Falls.

A return trip via Scotts Track would be a good option for less confident hikers who are not so into the steep rocky climbs and opt for the safer, more comfortable path. Nevertheless, it is a big half-day hike and everyone should be properly prepared for it.