Sidle 73

Point to point

The real star of the show here is the Mountain Beech Forest. This isn't just any bush; it is a pristine example of the high-country forest that once covered much of this region. The trees are often covered in a black sooty mould (don't worry, it's natural!) which is caused by scale insects that produce honeydew—a vital food source for native birds.

• The "Sidle" Perspective: About halfway through, you get a real sense of the "sidle" nature of the track. You are perched on the side of the hill, looking through the trunks of the beech trees down toward the valley floor.
• Photo Ops: The dappled light filtering through the canopy provides excellent opportunities for photography, especially in the late afternoon when the sun hits the trunks at a low angle.
• The Picnic Finish: Ending (or starting) at the Craigieburn Picnic Area is a highlight in itself. It is a beautifully maintained spot with plenty of space to spread out a blanket and enjoy the mountain air.

Getting There

Finding Sidle 73 is easy, as it is located right off the main road to the West Coast.

From Christchurch, follow State Highway 73 through Springfield and over Porter's Pass. Continue past Lake Pearson and look for the sign for the Broken River Ski Field. Turn onto the gravel access road and drive a short distance until you reach the Craigieburn Picnic Area.

There is ample parking here, along with toilet facilities and picnic tables. The track is well-signposted from the picnic area. Because this is a point-to-point track, you can either arrange a pick-up at the Craigieburn Ski Field road end, or simply turn around and walk back the way you came, making it a very pleasant 2.4-kilometre return trip.

Wildlife Spotting

For such a short walk, Sidle 73 is surprisingly bird-heavy. The honeydew produced in these beech forests acts like a high-energy buffet for New Zealand's feathered residents.

• Rifleman (tītitipounamu): Keep your eyes peeled for New Zealand’s smallest bird. They are tiny, round, and almost tail-less, often seen flitting up and down tree trunks like little clockwork toys.
• Bellbird (korimako): You will likely hear them before you see them. Their song is a clear, liquid chime that defines the sound of the New Zealand bush.
• Fantail (pīwakawaka): These friendly little birds will often follow walkers, darting around your feet to catch the tiny insects you stir up from the leaf litter.
• Kererū: Look up into the higher branches for the heavy-set New Zealand pigeon. The sound of their wings in flight is a distinctive, low whoosh-whoosh.

Tip: If you stand still for a minute and remain quiet, the birds will often come to you. The pīwakawaka in particular are very curious!

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Craigieburn Forest Park is an alpine environment, which means the "flavour" of the walk changes dramatically with the seasons.

• Spring: This is perhaps the best time for birdwatching. The forest is vibrant, and the air is crisp.
• Summer: The deep shade of the beech forest provides a cool sanctuary when the Canterbury high country is baking under the sun.
• Autumn: The light is softer, and the air is often still. It’s a wonderful time for photography.
• Winter: While the track is short, it can become very icy or covered in snow. If you visit in winter, ensure you have sturdy boots with good grip.

What to pack: Even though this is a short, easy walk, the weather in the Selwyn high country can change in a heartbeat. Always carry a light waterproof jacket, even if the sky is blue. A bottle of water and a light snack are great to have, especially if you decide to linger at the picnic area. If you are walking in summer, don't forget the sun protection; the New Zealand sun is fierce, even at higher altitudes.

A note on dogs: Sidle 73 is dog-friendly, which is a rarity in many of our national parks. However, please keep your furry friends under control to protect the nesting birds and to be respectful of other track users, including mountain bikers.

Local & Regional Context

The area around the Craigieburn Range holds significant meaning for both Māori and early European settlers. For Ngāi Tahu, the local iwi (tribe), these mountains were part of the ara tawhito—the ancient trails used to travel between the East Coast and the West Coast pounamu (greenstone) resources. The forest provided shelter and food for those making the arduous journey across the Alps.

In the mid-19th century, the area became part of the vast high-country sheep stations. You can still see the remnants of this pastoral history in the surrounding landscape. The forest itself was protected as a Forest Park in the 1970s, largely to prevent erosion and protect the headwaters of the Waimakariri River. Today, it is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, managed by the Department of Conservation with a focus on restoring native biodiversity.

After the Walk

Once you've finished your wander and breathed in that fresh mountain air, you’ll likely be looking for a bit of "sustenance."

• Springfield: Just a 20-minute drive back toward Christchurch, the township of Springfield is home to the famous Springfield Donut (great for a photo op!).
• The Sheffield Pie Shop: If you're heading back to town, a stop at the Sheffield Pie Shop (which has a branch in Springfield) is practically a legal requirement for Canterbury hikers. Their award-winning pies are the gold standard for post-walk refuelling.
• Castle Hill Village: Just a few minutes down the road from the trailhead, this quiet alpine village is a lovely place for a slow drive-through to admire the high-country architecture.

Sidle 73 might be short, but it offers a concentrated dose of everything that makes the New Zealand wilderness special: ancient forests, unique wildlife, and a profound sense of peace. It’s the perfect "easy win" for your next weekend adventure.