B and G in New Zealand: Arthur's Pass National Park 2014

During our scenic drive from Kaikoura to Arthur’s Pass, we stopped at Castle Hill Scenic Reserve. The road up to Arthur’s Pass was much better than we anticipated. We expected many miles of switchbacks from a mountain pass, but that was not the case.

Castle Hill Scenic Reserve

Bealey Hotel, just south of the village of Arthur’s Pass, seemed sunnier and clearer than in Arthur's Pass village. We enjoyed the spectacular views from the hotel at breakfast each morning.

Eastern View and Bealey Hotel

Western View from Bealey Hotel

Northern View from Bealey Hotel

Kea on car at the train station at Arthur's Pass

One of the stage coaches once used to cross Arthur's Pass
Made in New Hampshire

We took several walks in Arthur’s Pass. We hiked through beach forests to Punchbowl and Bridal Veil Falls along the Arthur’s Pass Trail. A very nice short walk took you on the Old Coach Road. Otira Valley Walk was lined with syb-alpine flowers and shrubs. Our favorite walk was Bealey Valley Track which we walked twice, once with Carli, an American girl working at Bealey Hotel.

G hiking Otira Valley Walk

View from Otira Valley Walk

Falls seen from Dobson Nature Walk

Giant Dragonfly

Punchbowl Falls - Arthur's Pass

Grey Warbler - Arthur's Pass Walkway

The Bealey Valley track starts in beech forests, which are stunted and shaped by the wind. You then cross the Bealey Chasm and follow the path up the hill to a tussock field. On the other side of the field, you walk on a boardwalk over bog-like land. There are carniverous sun dew plants which catch insects. The walk ends with a wonderful view of Mt. Rolleston.