Mount Bealey Track

Mount Bealey Track starts at the end of Mount Bealey Road in Arthur’s Pass village. It is a rugged tramping track that climbs steeply to the bushline. Stick to the track by closely watching the orange triangles. There are markers of other colours indicating traplines, do not follow these. The track ends at the bushline. There are good views here of Arthur’s Pass and the surrounding mountains. Even though Mount Bealey Track is a day walk, you still need to be ready for delays or an unexpected night out. This includes carrying warm and waterproof clothes, an emergency shelter, spare food, a torch and extra batteries, and a distress beacon as well as a fully charged mobile phone. The track gains a lot of height in a short distance, so it is best suited to people with good fitness. It is uneven and you will need to scramble up/down tree roots. Do not try take alternative routes to the village by walking off-track in the bush or following the streams, there are steep cliffs. There are additional hazards in winter, including snow, freezing temperatures and avalanche risk. Avalanche paths are not marked but avalanches can cross the track. Note: Mount Bealey Track is in a different part of Arthur’s Pass to the popular Bealey Spur Track and Hut and to Bealey Valley Track/Bealey Chasm . These are both easier alternative tracks with excellent scenery.

There is no track to the Mount Bealey summit

There is no track or marked route above the bushline to the top of Mount Bealey. Do not proceed beyond this point unless you are an experienced and well-equipped tramper. You need a high level of alpine tramping experience to continue to the top, including route-finding, map reading and survival skills. Avalanche Peak is an alternative trip that does have marked routes to the summit (though note that it also requires good weather, fitness, experience and preparation). There are very steep sections and fall risks above the bushline on Mount Bealey. The summit is a considerable distance from the end of the track. Be ready to turn back if the weather deteriorates or if the terrain/navigation is proving more difficult than expected. In winter or when snow is present, you will need an ice axe, crampons, an avalanche transceiver, probe and shovel, as well as the ability to use them.