Craigieburn Forest Park

Extending from the Waimakariri River to the Wilberforce River, Craigieburn Forest Park is a place of wonder. Home to braided rivers, tussock grasslands, beech tree valleys and striking rugged mountains, the area has a number of walking tracks and huts. Further adding to the charm of the Craigieburn is its variety and accessibility – whether you're an expert hiker, an enthusiastic day walker or a just-10-minutes-please sort of person, there's an ideal path.

3 Craigieburn Forest Park walks to try 1 Hut Creek Walk

This pretty walk passes through an area that was used by the Forest Research Institute for trial planting from the mid 1950s to mid 1970s. The walk takes about 1 hour return. Walking shoes or light tramping boots are recommended. Start from Craigieburn Environmental Education Centre, Craigieburn Forest Park.

2 Bridge Hill Walk

This 10-minute walk leads to the stunning panoramic views of Castle Hill Basin and the Torlesse Range – huge reward for minimal effort.

Start from the lookout car park by the Craigieburn Environmental Education Centre, Craigieburn Forest Park.

3 Lyndon Saddle & Helicopter Hill

The track (3-4 hours return) crosses the Cave Stream and grassy terraces before creeping steeply through beech forest to Lyndon Saddle. From here, head back or continue up and along a steep ridge to the top of Helicopter Hill, which provides breathtaking views of Castle Hill Basin and the Torlesse and Craigieburn ranges. The track passes through patches of felled pine trees – the pine seed often blows from here to Castle Hill basin so trampers are encouraged to help avoid this by pulling out pine seedlings along the way. Start from the Craigieburn picnic area.