Temple Basin, Arthurs Pass National Park

Temple Basin Ski field sits 500m above Arthur's Pass. The two main lodges belong to Canterbury University and the Temple Basin Ski club. However, lodges are for wimps and skiers. Trampers camp out in snow caves. Temple Basin is a great place for snow craft courses and learning alpine climbing. There are also rock routes on Temple Buttress, plus access to Goat pass and the Mingha valley via Temple Col (a good 2-day trip or a keen day walk). The main hills are Blimit, Temple and Phipps (all about 1900-2000m). Good access from the pass below mean that these peaks make great day trips from Christchurch. Excellent views of Mt Rolleston on the opposite side of the valley can also be had.


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Copyright (c) 1996 Jonathan Carr