5 Days 66 km

Highlights

  • Sub-alpine scenery
  • Stretches of open farm land
  • Lewis Pass National Reserve

Proximity

GRADE: ADVANCED

Accommodation may be limited in peak season.

The St James Walkway combines diverse scenery, wildlife and vegetation on an undemanding trail through sub-alpine conservation and reserve areas.

Boyle River between Anne Saddle and Rokeby Hut, St James Walkway
Christchurch - Canterbury
St James Walkway, Christchurch - Canterbury

St James Walkway Itinerary

Located partly within the Lewis Pass National Reserve, the St James Walkway winds through St James Conservation Area and Lake Sumner Forest Park, taking in stunning alpine scenery.

Day 1

Lewis Pass entrance > Cannibal Gorge Hut or Ada Pass Hut

Follow the track as it travels across a natural open bog, enters the forest and descends via a steep zig-zag into Cannibal Gorge on the Maruia River. Cross the swing bridge and walk 6 km to the Cannibal Gorge Hut or continue along the track as it follows the Maruia River, through beech forest and open alpine fields to the Ada Pass Hut.

3 hours 30 min walking to Cannibal Gorge Hut, 5 hours walking to Ada Pass Hut

Department of Conservation logo

Department of Conservation

Click the link below for more information and detailed maps about this hike.

St James Walkway(opens in new window)

More information

Getting there:

Both ends of the track are on SH7 (Lewis Pass Rd) - one end is near the top of Lewis Pass, and the other end is at Boyle Village.

Need to know:

  • Weather in apline environments can change quickly, be prepared and check out Safety in the outdoors information before setting out.
  • During the summer months it is recommended that you carry a tent as accommodation can become limited.

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