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Craigieburn

Summertime

Craigieburn native forest in New Zealand

Now Open for summer — Because mountains don’t melt!

From:
1st Nov - 1st June

Craigieburn isn’t just for winter warriors—our alpine paradise is now open for summer stays! Escape to the stunning Canterbury high country, where crisp mountain air, lush native beech forest, and breathtaking landscapes await.

Adventure Awaits
‍Swap your skis for wheels and hit our thrilling mountain biking trails, or lace up your boots and explore scenic alpine walks with panoramic views that stretch for e. Whether you're chasing an adrenaline rush or a peaceful retreat, Craigieburn delivers.

Stay in the Heart of the Wilderness
Nestled in a secluded alpine setting, our lodges are now open for summer bookings. Wake up to birdsong, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and enjoy the tranquility of a ski field minus the snow (and crowds!). With a variety of accommodation options and unbeatable views, this is your chance to unplug and unwind.

Come for the adventure, stay for the serenity—because Craigieburn is just as epic without the powder.

Craigieburn MTB - Where the trails are Craigie and your legs will burn.

The Craigieburn Edge Track, nestled within New Zealand's Craigieburn Forest Park, offers mountain bikers an exhilarating experience characterised by diverse terrains and breathtaking alpine scenery. Our summer accommodation is at the top of the Edge Track.

Trail Overview
Spanning approximately 3.6 kms, the Edge Track is renowned for its challenging singletrack that caters to advanced riders. The trail starts at our accomodation and finishes near the base of the Craigieburn Valley Ski Field road and meanders through native beech forests before emerging into open tussock lands. Riders are treated to panoramic vistas of the Southern Alps, making the journey as visually rewarding as it is thrilling.

Terrain
The trail features a mix of steady climbs and exhilarating descents, with an overall elevation change of approximately 232 meters. Riders will navigate through forested areas and open alpine sections, encountering technical segments that demand adept bike handling skills. (see videos on right)

Trail Connections
The Edge Track seamlessly integrates with other notable trails in the Craigieburn network. Upon reaching the junction with the Luge Track, riders can opt to extend their adventure by exploring additional routes such as the Dracophyllum Flat and Hogs Back trails, each offering unique challenges and scenic allure.

Preparation and Safety
A well-maintained mountain bike with appropriate suspension is recommended. Riders should also carry essential repair tools, a first aid kit, and sufficient water & food. Weather conditions in alpine regions can change rapidly. It's advisable to check the local forecast before embarking and to be prepared for sudden shifts in weather. 

Craigieburn bike trail mapsLocal weather YRTrailforks Craigieburn bike trail maps
Mountain Biking doing a jump
Kids mountain biking at Craigieburn

Craigieburn walking tracks - Because the best views don’t come from your couch.

Craigieburn isn’t just for thrill-seekers on two wheels—our alpine wonderland is home to some of the most breathtaking walking tracks in New Zealand. Whether you’re after a gentle stroll through native beech forest or an epic ridge-line adventure, Craigieburn delivers stunning views, fresh mountain air, and the kind of peace you just can’t find in the city.

Dracophyllum Flat Track – A relaxed walk through lush beech forest, perfect for birdwatching and soaking in the quiet beauty of the mountains.

Helicopter Hill Track – A short but rewarding climb to one of the best viewpoints in the Craigieburn Range. The 360° views at the top are worth every step!

Craigieburn Forest Park Routes – Want to go big? Tackle one of the longer alpine routes like the Cass-Lagoon Saddle Track, a multi-day adventure through valleys, ridgelines, and breathtaking backcountry.

Plan Your Walk
Craigieburn’s trails are open year-round, but summer offers the perfect conditions for exploring. Pack good walking shoes, bring plenty of water, and get ready to reconnect with nature. Whether you seek a short hike or a full-day trek, there's a trail for every adventurer.

DOC walks in Craigieburn area10 best Craigieburn walking tracksLocal weather YR
Dad and daughter walking at Craigieburn in summer
Man with a camera at Craigieburn in summer

Come Stay in our Summer Accommodation

Take it easy at this unique and tranquil getaway. Craigieburn Valley Ski Area is a remote and picturesque destination located nestled in the mountains near Cass, it offers stunning views and a tranquil alpine environment. Accessed via a private ski road, the 30 min journey requires caution as it is gravel and unsuitable for campervans. This is simple, no-frills accommodation—think of it as an upgraded New Zealand tramping hut. Bring own bedding, sleeping bag or linen. Take rubbish away. No front desk, you have the mountain to yourselves. In our larger lodges custodian stays, bookable by request, total capacity 89 beds.

Summer Whakahaere 2 double bedroom cabin in the Craigieburn Ranges

Summer Whakahaere

BASIC STAY: Bring your own bedding, clean up after your stay, and take rubbish with you. Lockbox entry details will be provided. Sleeps 4. Nestled in the tranquil Craigieburn Range Forest, this cozy retreat is ideal for small groups, couples, or families of four. Located just 30 minutes up the Craigieburn ski road (unsuitable for campervans), the lodge features: Two double bedrooms. A fully equipped kitchen with gas hobs. A flushing toilet. Hot shower in nearby Ngahere. Click book accommodation for more images.

Summer Staff Quarter up Craigieburn ski field

Coming next Summer!
Summer Staff Quarter

BASIC STAY: bring bedding, clean up, and take rubbish out. Lockbox entry details will be provided. Sleeps 11. Located just 30 minutes up the Craigieburn ski road (unsuitable for campervans) and nestled amongst the native alpine surrounds of the Craigieburn Forest Park, our staff quarters are available for smaller groups, mountain biking groups, trampers, and family groups. Rooms are small with 7 single beds in own room and 2 x double bedrooms. Access to basic kitchen and hot shower in Ngahere. Click book accommodation for more images.

Summer Koroheke Lodge up Craigieburn skifield accommodation suitable for large groups

Summer Koroheke Lodge

Nestled in the stunning native alpine surrounds of Craigieburn Forest Park, our lodge is the perfect venue for conferences, instructional activities, retreats, weddings, outdoor nature courses, and competitive events. The main lodge accommodates 44 guests, with the option to add the Matuhi Lodge for an additional 16 beds, bringing the total capacity to 60 beds. For larger groups, nearby lodges are also available, increasing the total capacity to 89 beds email admin@craigieburn.co.nz to learn more. Custodian stays. Click book accommodation for more images.
This is bookable on request only.

Summer Matuhi Lodge up at Craigieburn skifield accommodation for large groups

Summer Matuhi Lodge

Matuhi Lodge can only be used with Koroheke Lodge, offering additional accommodation for up to 16 people in a mix of single and double beds. It features: 1 double room (1 double bed) 2 triple rooms (each with 1 double bed and 1 single bed). 2 quadruple rooms (each with 1 double bed and a bunk bed for 2 singles). 1 toilet. The Matuhi Lodge must be hired alongside the Koroheke Lodge, which accommodates up to 44 people. Together, both lodges can host a total of 60 guests. For larger groups, nearby lodges are also available, increasing the total capacity to 89 beds email admin@craigieburn.co.nz to learn more. Custodian stays. Click book accommodation for more images.
This is bookable on request only.

Lincoln Lodge in the Craigieburn skifield carpark. Accommodation for large groups.

Summer Lincoln Lodge

BASIC STAY: bring bedding, clean up, and take rubbish out. Lockbox entry details will be provided. Sleeping a total of 18. Located just 30 minutes up the Craigieburn ski road (unsuitable for campervans) and nestled amongst the native alpine surrounds of the Craigieburn Forest Park. Lincoln Lodge is a stand-alone hut on the edge of our car park, a mixture of 4 bunk beds in the bunkroom, 8 bunk beds in the bunkroom, and 6 bunk beds in the bunkroom. Common shared kitchen and dining area.This is bookable on request only.

Craigieburn Valley Ski field shop of merchandise to wear and use.

Craigieburn Shop

Love Craigieburn? Wear the gear.

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Craigieburn Ranges, New Zealand this is our mountain parrot called a Kea.
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