Lewis Pass SH7 — Canterbury to WestCoast.
Distance
215 km
Duration
1 day
Climb
1,100 m
Lewis Pass SH7 — Canterbury to West Coast.
The northernmost of the three main Southern Alps crossings links Canterbury's alpine spa town to the goldfields of the West Coast. At 907m, Lewis Pass is gentler and less trafficked than Arthur's Pass or Haast, making it a relaxed and beautiful alternative. Dense silver beech forest lines both sides, the Maruia River valley is serene, and Reefton — which gained the world's first public electricity supply in 1888, ahead of London and New York — makes a perfect lunch stop before the descent to Greymouth.
Quick facts
SurfacePaved
Distance215 km
Days1
Total climb1,100 m
DifficultyEasy
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The route.
Hanmer SpringsStart · Start at Hanmer Springs — Canterbury's premier thermal resort town in a sheltered mountain basin at 381m. The Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools are worth a soak the evening before. Fill up and check the forecast; snow can close the pass in winter months.
Lewis Pass Summit 907mMountain Pass · The northernmost Southern Alps crossing at 907m, named after John Lewis who explored it in 1860. Lower and gentler than Arthur's Pass or Haast, with excellent sealed road and beautiful silver beech forest on both sides. No services at the summit — carry food and water.
ReeftonRestaurant · New Zealand's Quartz Town — the world's first town with a public electricity supply in 1888. The goldfields-era main street is well preserved. Stop at the Reef Cottage Cafe for a proper lunch and coffee. The historic gold battery (stamp mill) is a short walk from the main street.
GreymouthEnd · End in Greymouth on the Grey River — the West Coast's largest town. Good accommodation and food after a full day in the mountains. The TranzAlpine scenic train heads back to Christchurch over Arthur's Pass if making a one-way trip; book bike transport in advance.
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