Bealey Hut

Summer is the best season for this track

Because of the high avalanche danger and the frequency of winter snowfalls, this route is best attempted from late spring to early autumn. There is simple avalanche terrain on the Cass-Lagoon Saddle Track from Bealey Hut to Hamilton Hut, and complex avalanche terrain from the Cass River SH73 road end to Hamilton Hut. All times are one way unless otherwise stated.

Hamilton Hut to West Harper Hut

Time: 2 hours 30 minutes one way

From Hamilton Hut to Bealey Hut, you are in simple avalanche terrain. Even though the track is in the forest, avalanches can reach the track from the mountains above. The greatest risk in this section is from Harper River to Lagoon Saddle Hut, as avalanches can travel from the Mt Bruce ridges to the track. Read more about avalanche risk in the Know Before You Go section or on this webpage . The route crosses Hamilton Creek at the footbridge 10 minutes downstream from Hamilton Hut and leads to a swing bridge across Harper River, a short distance above its confluence with Hamilton Creek. After crossing the swing bridge, the route continues upstream on the true right of the river to West Harper Hut. In fine weather and suitable conditions, the riverbed offers an easy alternative with several fine swimming holes along the way. West Harper Hut (a hut built in the 1950s) has five canvas bunks, a fireplace and a dirt floor.

Lagoon Saddle Hut to Bealey Hut and SH73

Time: 2–3 hours one way

From Lagoon Saddle Hut the track gradually climbs through patches of beech forest above the tarns on Lagoon Saddle. It is marked by poles and markers. Once on the northern face of Mount Bruce, the track descends through tussock and gives views of the snow-capped peaks of Arthur’s Pass National Park and the braided Waimakariri River. The track descends through beech and exotic forest to Bealey Hut (six bunks). A further 5 minute walk from the hut takes you to the car park by Cora Lynn Station, and another 2 minutes to SH73. If you are walking this route in reverse, take the Cora Lynn Road to the Arthur's Pass Wilderness Lodge and Cora Lynn Station and enter through the gate signposted ‘Cass – Lagoon Track’. Note that times may be longer on the uphill sections of the track when walking in this direction.