Mt Faust Loop

Loop

The descent from Mt Faust is where the adventure truly tests your mettle. It can be just as challenging as the climb, particularly as you drop back into the bush. Some sections are notoriously overgrown, and the track can be tricky to follow. You’ll need a keen eye for trail markers and perhaps a bit of "bush bashing" intuition. Eventually, the gradient levels out as you connect with a picturesque five-kilometre stretch of the St James Walkway. This final leg is a much gentler ramble alongside the crystal-clear Boyle River, featuring a vertigo-inducing swing bridge that provides one last thrill before you return to the carpark.

Highlights & Must-See Features

The undeniable crown jewel of this trek is the Mt Faust summit. On a clear day, the sense of scale is immense. It’s the perfect spot to sit, catch your breath, and realise just how small we are compared to the vastness of the Canterbury high country.

Another standout feature is the collection of alpine tarns nestled in the hollows of the ridgeline. These tranquil pools are not only beautiful for photography but serve as popular (albeit exposed) wild camping spots for those turning this into an overnight trip. Waking up to a sunrise hitting the peaks while reflected in a still tarn is an experience you won't soon forget.

Finally, the St James Walkway swing bridge near the end of the loop is a fantastic engineering feat. It offers a dramatic view of the rushing river below and serves as a symbolic "finish line" for the rugged alpine section of your day.

Getting There

The Mt Faust Loop is located about 2.5 hours from Christchurch and 1.5 hours from Reefton. Most hikers use the Boyle Village carpark as their base.

• The main Boyle Village carpark.
• A small dirt/grass area on the east side of SH7, just before the Boyle River bridge.
• The Boyle Village campsite; from here, you can walk north across the bridge to reach the trailhead.

A quick word of caution: Both ends of the St James Walkway have a bit of a reputation for car break-ins. It is highly advisable not to leave any valuables in your vehicle. If possible, leave the glovebox open to show there is nothing worth taking—a common "pro-tip" for South Island trampers.

Wildlife Spotting

The Lewis Pass region is a stronghold for native birdlife. Because this trail takes you from deep forest to high alpine peaks, you’ll see a great cross-section of New Zealand’s finest:

• Kea: These inquisitive, emerald-green alpine parrots are almost a guaranteed sight on the high ridges. They are highly intelligent and notoriously cheeky—keep a close eye on your pack and snacks!
• Bellbird (Korimako): You’ll hear their liquid, ringing notes echoing through the beech forest long before you see them.
• South Island Robin (Kakaruai): Look for these friendly little guys on the forest floor during your initial climb. They often hop close to hikers to see if your boots have stirred up any delicious grubs.
• Rock Wren (Pīwauwau): If you are very quiet and very lucky, you might spot this tiny, bobbing bird among the alpine rock screes. They are rare and special to see.
• Fantail (Pīwakawaka) and Rifleman (Tītitipounamu): Common throughout the forested sections, flitting through the canopy.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Mt Faust Loop is best tackled in Spring, Summer, or Autumn.

• Spring: Offers the most dramatic scenery with snow still clinging to the higher peaks, though you must be wary of lingering ice on the ridges.
• Summer: Provides the most daylight and generally more stable weather, though the exposed ridgeline can get incredibly hot.
• Autumn: Often brings crisp, clear days with the best visibility—just keep an eye on the shortening daylight hours.

• Start Early: With an 8.5-hour average duration, you want to be on the trail by 8:00 AM at the latest to ensure you aren't navigating the overgrown descent in the dark.
• Check the Forecast: The Lewis Pass is notorious for the "Nor'west" wind, which can be brutal on the exposed tops. If high winds or heavy rain are forecast, save this hike for another day.
• Gear Up: This is a "hard" track. You need sturdy tramping boots, waterproof layers, a hat, gloves, and plenty of high-energy food.
• Water: There is limited water once you leave the river/forest and head onto the ridges, so carry at least 2-3 litres.
• Navigation: Because the track can be indistinct on the tops and overgrown in the bush, a topographical map and a compass (or a reliable GPS/PLB) are essential.

Note: This trail is not dog-friendly (due to the national park/reserve status and sensitive birdlife) and is not recommended for children due to the sheer physical exertion and navigational challenges involved.

Local & Regional Context

The Lewis Pass, known to Māori as Kōpua-a-Kane, has a rich history as a vital link between the east and west coasts. Long before European settlers arrived, it was a traditional route for Waitaha and Ngāi Tahu seeking pounamu (greenstone) from the West Coast rivers.

Geologically, the area is fascinating. You are standing near the Alpine Fault line, and the rugged terrain of the Lewis Pass Scenic Reserve is a testament to the immense tectonic forces that shaped the Southern Alps. The area is part of a massive conservation effort to protect the native beech forests from invasive pests, which is why the bird song here is often more vibrant than in other parts of the country.

After the Walk

After 8.5 hours on your feet, you’ll be dreaming of a hot meal and a cold drink.

If you are heading west, the Maruia Hot Springs is just a short drive away. There is nothing quite like soaking in natural thermal waters while looking back up at the mountains you just conquered. They also have a cafe and restaurant on-site.

If you are heading back towards Christchurch, you might stop in at Hanmer Springs. It’s a slight detour, but the town is a hiker's paradise with dozens of pubs and cafes. The Monteith's Brewery Bar or the Boulder Point Cafe are great spots to refuel with a hearty burger and share stories of your Mt Faust adventure.