One of the most direct routes from Coast to Coast is “The Great Alpine Highway SH73“ This opens up a whole region of diverse landscapes and climate, lakes and rivers, natural beauty, unique townships, magnificent views of the Southern Alps and alpine passes.

All of this offers a playground of discovery and adventure- all year round for everyone!! Activities include rock climbing, skiing, jet boating, hiking, mountain biking, horse trekking, golf - to name a few. Each township in the region has their own identity, which are being emphasised through galleries, historic homesteads, hotels, heritage railway station, memorials and information centres. Accommodation places are on the increase all offering their own uniqueness together with cafes, bakeries and service centres.

Waimakariri and Rakaia Gorges Otira Viaduct Arthur’s Pass National Park Korowai Torlesse Tussockland Park, Craigieburn Forest Park Castle Hill Rocks – Kura Tawhiti, Cave Stream Reserve Lake Coleridge, Waterfalls, Lakes, Cloud Formations Tranz Alpine Train Journey Horse Trekking, Farm Shows, 4wd Safaris, Jet boating, Golf Historic Hotels, Homesteads, History & Heritage Skifields, Fishing, Hunting, Walking, Climbing, Mountain Biking Unique Accommodation places, High Country Retreats Cafes, Restaurants, Bakeries and Wineries

The Great Alpine Highway, SH73 journey is 255km (3 ½ hours) from Coast to Coast with plenty of opportunities to linger longer or stay overnight in this magnificent region. You can connect with this route from north and south on the Inland Scenic Route, SH72, Canterbury Pacific Highway, SH1 or West Coast Highway through Kumara.