Temple Basin track is one of those classic Arthur’s Pass hikes that packs a lot into a short distance. The quick but uphill climb and stunning alpine views make this track well worth the effort. Gaining a lot of elevation in a short time, the views are 10/10 very quickly into the hike. Whether you’re after a quick leg-burner or a spot to soak in the views, the Temple Basin track is a great choice for a day hike.
Located right off the highway in Arthur’s Pass, the Temple Basin tracks leads up to the Temple Basin ski area which is quite popular with club skiers and snowboarders in the winter months. This track can be hiked year round but requires a lot less admin and effort once the snow has melted. There’s no need for crampons and the track is much more manageable the further you go.
Track details
490 m gain | 5km | 2.5-3 hours
The ascent
The hike to Temple Basin is clearly marked the entire way up with orange DOC markers and is pretty straight forward. It follows a rocky 4 wheel drive like track zig zagging through steep rocky terrain, gaining elevation quite quickly. Surrounded by dramatic rugged peaks, no matter where you look, the view is incredible. Although a steep climb, the track is not actually that long and before you know it, you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world!
Expect to find a few steps on the way up, large boulders to climb over and a bridge to cross as you get close to the top. There are a couple of ski chalets; the first one you’ll reach is Lockwood Shelter. This shelter is for day use with flushing toilets and running water. It is best to bring your own toilet paper.
Everyone is different but I’d say it takes about an hour and a half to get up to the lodges/shelters. Some of these photos show it a beautiful vibrant red. Sadly (in my opinion) it was repainted in 2024 in the same beige colour as the other lodges.
Once you reach the first chalets you can do a bit of exploring around there or continue to the Page Memorial Shelter, a day hut in the basin and to the other part of the ski field.
To get to the Page Memorial Shelter, take the trail along the south side of the ski lodges to the rocky spur on the right side of the Temple rope-tow. Basically, look out the back of the lodges and head that way. The track up to this is short but also steep with loose rock. Once you reach the track alongside the mountain, it flattens out and is easy to navigate to Page Shelter. It may be tempting to want to stay overnight, even camp around the area but you’ll want to note, it is known for being haunted and overnight stays are not permitted.
I highly recommend going to Page Shelter to check things out, only if you’re a more confident hiker as going up and down the first bit to the track can be hard to get your footing stable.
When to go
The beauty of the Temple Basin track is that it is pretty much accessible all year round. Late summer and early fall I think is the best time to go. The track is not slippery or snowy and you won’t be blasted with the summertime heat.
However, if you’re up for the challenge and have experience with winter hiking, heading up in winter is next level! The scenery is incredible with a layer of snow. I recommend bringing crampons or microspikes especially if you want to head back to the basin. This is a ski field in the winter so be aware of ski iers and your surroundings.
How to get there
The Temple Basin track carpark is the same as the one for the ski field as it uses the same access to get up. It is just off of SH73, 5 km towards the West Coast from Arthur’s Pass township (if coming from AP it is on the right hand side)
A few things to note
Although this is a beginner-friendly track in Canterbury, it is located in an alpine environment. The track can be very slippery in the winter with lots of snow beyond the first set of lodges. I also do not recommend going off-track unless you are a very experienced hiker. There are many places to get bluffed out and there has been casualties in the area in the past.
If you are going up in the wintertime, be prepared. Layers, hats, gloves, food and water are all a must even if it’s a nice sunny day. Of course in the winter, there is a high risk of avalanches especially in the basin.
I highly suggest always checking the Department of Conservation website before you go on any track for the latest track updates. Stay up to date for the Temple Basin track here.
Temple Basin track in wintertime!
