11 October 2026
Showers, becoming few and far between in the afternoon, then clearing to fine in the evening.
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Arthur's Pass National Park
Experience stunning views in fine weather from a more gradual track than most alpine tracks around Arthur's Pass village.
Distance
12 km
Walking time
2 hr 30 min one way
Difficulty
Easy
Dogs
Not allowed
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Weather outlook
Issued 10 Oct 2026, 9:23 pm
11 October 2026
Showers, becoming few and far between in the afternoon, then clearing to fine in the evening.
12 October 2026
Fine.
13 October 2026
A few showers developing.
14 October 2026
Rain, with heavy falls. Snow lowering to 2200 metres.
15 October 2026
A few showers, some possibly heavy, with snow to 700 metres.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
Time required: 2.5 hours This walk has stunning views in fine weather. It is often a good choice when north-westerly winds are bringing rain to Arthur’s Pass, being further east, it is drier in these conditions. The track appeals to many walkers because it is more gradual than most of the alpine tracks around Arthur’s Pass village, and it does not climb above the bush line. It is well marked and is suitable for reasonably fit people who are well equipped. The track climbs gently up the spur, through mountain beech forest. In summer look out for red-flowering mistletoe/pirirangi near the start of the track. At one point the track comes close to a cliff with a dramatic view down to Bruce Stream - take care with children. Higher up, the track passes through tussock grasslands and subalpine scrub and passes near several tarns. There are expansive views of the Waimakariri River valley and surrounding mountains. The track ends at the historic Bealey Spur Hut, used by musterers in the days when this area was used for summer grazing for sheep.
No fires permitted in the lower carparking area. Wasp populations reach high numbers from January to April – wear light coloured clothing and carry antihistamine cream/tablets as a precaution.
Bealey Spur Hut (opens in browser)
The track starts from the car park off SH73, just past the Bealey Hotel, 14 km south of Arthur’s Pass village. From the car park walk up Cloudesley Road to the track start at the top. Use this location in Google Maps to find your way there.
We encourage you to continue gaining the skills and knowledge required for a safe trip. The NZ Mountain Safety Council has lots of free resources and information you can use. These can be accessed via www.mountainsafety.org.nz . We recommend trying these online learning tools: Trip Planning Tramping / field Skills Basic Navigation River Safety Additionally, check out the range of helpful videos available from the NZ Mountain Safety Council YouTube channel .
No dogs.
Track information, access and weather can change. Confirm current alerts and land-manager information close to departure, tell someone your plans, and carry equipment appropriate for the route and conditions.