Ashburton Gorge High Country Circuit

The Ashburton Gorge High Country Circuit climbs from Canterbury’s flat farmland into the foothills of the Southern Alps, following station tracks through golden tussock country that looks like it hasn’t changed since the first sheep arrived. The track crosses multiple braided river tributaries before climbing to 1,200 meters at Cameron Pass, where the entire Southern Alps spine spreads out from Mount Cook to the Arrowsmiths. The circuit includes access to historic musterer’s huts and passes through working high country stations where merino sheep still rule the landscape.

This is a difficult track requiring capable 4WD with good ground clearance and traction aids for river crossings. The rivers can rise quickly during rain, making crossings dangerous or impossible, so check conditions and carry recovery gear. Best tackled October through March when river levels are typically lower. Landowner permission required for some sections, and camping is restricted to designated areas near huts. It’s proper high country exploring that shows you the Canterbury backcountry most tourists never see.