Sudden Valley Bivvy
Arthur's Pass National Park • Canterbury
Alerts
Avalanche NZ
Check Avalanche NZ for the full avalanche forecast before you go.
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NIWA weather risks
NIWA's Parks Weather site lists daily weather risks for the forecast point below.
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Forecast point: Arthurs Pass (745m) · 11.6km away
Check the DOC website for current alerts and conditions before you go. This site gets current alert info from DOC, but is not an official source of information.
- About
- This is a basic two-bunk hut in the North Canterbury and Arthur's Pass area.
- Facilities
- Mattresses
- Toilets - non-flush
- Water from stream
- Water supply
Fees and bookings
Fees
Free
Getting there
This is a backcountry hut with no DOC track access. You will need to plan your route and navigate yourself, using aids like a map, compass and GPS. Learn navigation skills.
Flood damage on route to Sudden Valley Bivvy
The route to Sudden Valley Bivvy is not maintained and is only sporadically marked. It is only possible to reach the bivvy when the rivers are low as there are multiple river crossings.
Due to significant flood damage, much of the track has been washed away and great care is required on the climb to get around Barrier. Expect the trip to take longer than expected.
Location
NZTopo50 map sheet: BV21
Grid/NZTM2000 coordinates: E1494334, N5243986
Know before you go
Stay safe when crossing rivers and streams
If you plan to cross unbridged rivers or side streams, know how to cross safely and be prepared for if you cannot cross.
Do not cross if the river or stream is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop. If in doubt, stay out.
NIWA river flow forecasts: View a video of national followed by regional river flows
There may be avalanche danger
Avalanches usually occur from May to November in Arthur’s Pass National Park. There can also be avalanches outside this period, if there is still snow coverage.
Check the avalanche terrain in this area.
If you are going into avalanche terrain, always:
- Have the relevant avalanche skills and training.
- Check the ATES rating and New Zealand Avalanche Advisory before you go.
- Go with a buddy. Both of you should carry and know how to use an avalanche transceiver, a snow shovel and a probe.
Nearby
Weather
Forecast at the hut