Mt Crichton Loop and Sam Summers Hut
A scenic loop hike near Queenstown featuring native bush, clear streams, and the historic Sam Summers Hut.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy cooler temperatures
Mt Crichton Loop and Sam Summers Hut
Best Time
Enjoy cooler temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic loop hike near Queenstown featuring native bush, clear streams, and the historic Sam Summers Hut.
"Love this walk. So does my dog. Beautiful native bush, Crystal clear water. Highly recommend."
🐾 Dog-Friendly Trail
This walk is a hit with dogs! Keep them on a leash where required and enjoy the native bush together.
🧭 Navigation Assistance
Trail signage can be minimal. Consider downloading offline maps or using a reliable GPS app.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sam Summers Hut
Summit of the loop
A historic, rustic hut offering a glimpse into the area's past. Admire its character from the outside.
Native Bush & Crystal Waters
Along the trail
Immerse yourself in beautiful native bush and enjoy the sight of crystal-clear water streams.
Old Mining Track
Part of the loop
Experience a unique pathway through an old mining track, adding a historical dimension to your hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Navigation
Hut Access & History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Dog-Friendly Trail
This walk is a hit with dogs! Keep them on a leash where required and enjoy the native bush together.
🧭 Navigation Assistance
Trail signage can be minimal. Consider downloading offline maps or using a reliable GPS app.
🏚️ Hut is for Viewing Only
The historic Sam Summers Hut is fragile. Admire its charm from the outside; it's not safe to enter.
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The terrain can be uneven, especially on the old mining track. Good hiking shoes are recommended.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog-Friendly Trail
This walk is a hit with dogs! Keep them on a leash where required and enjoy the native bush together.
🧭 Navigation Assistance
Trail signage can be minimal. Consider downloading offline maps or using a reliable GPS app.
🏚️ Hut is for Viewing Only
The historic Sam Summers Hut is fragile. Admire its charm from the outside; it's not safe to enter.
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The terrain can be uneven, especially on the old mining track. Good hiking shoes are recommended.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the Mt Crichton Loop for its beautiful native bush, clear waters, and the historical intrigue of Sam Summers Hut. It's a well-loved dog-friendly walk, though some find the trail signage lacking and the hut itself is not safe to enter.
"Cool, very old hut along the trail we hiked. Did not enter as it looks like it is about to fall over. Interesting reading about the history behind the hut as well"
Bay Area Reviews
"Cool little hut at the top of the hike! Be prepared for a bit of a hill climb, but nice and pretty scenery. Was well worth it. We ran up and had a break at the hut and ran down the other side which was about 9-10km total."
Francesca Everard
"Love this walk. So does my dog. Beautiful native bush, Crystal clear water. Highly recommend"
Maria
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead is easily accessible from Queenstown. You can drive and park at the designated parking area, which is about a 10-15 minute drive from the town center. Public transport options might be limited, so driving is often the most convenient.
Yes, there is a parking area available at the trailhead. It can get busy during peak times, so arriving early is advisable, especially on weekends or holidays.
While there are bike trails in the vicinity, the Mt Crichton Loop itself is primarily a hiking trail. Hikers have noted that bike trails are often better signed, so be mindful of designated paths.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Mt Crichton Loop is a public walking track and does not require an entrance fee. It's a free activity for all visitors.
The trail is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, it's best to hike during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment, especially given the potential for limited signage.
No booking is required for Sam Summers Hut as it's part of the public walking track. However, remember it's for viewing only and not safe to enter.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The loop is approximately 9-10 km and can take around 2-3 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how long you stop to enjoy the scenery or the hut.
The hike involves some uphill sections, particularly to reach Sam Summers Hut, but it's generally considered a moderate walk. The terrain can be uneven in places.
You'll experience beautiful native bush, crystal-clear water streams, and an interesting pathway through an old mining track. The Sam Summers Hut adds a historical element.
There are no specific facilities like restrooms or cafes directly on the loop. It's advisable to use facilities in Queenstown before you start your hike.
Yes, it's a great walk for families, especially those with dogs. The moderate difficulty and interesting historical elements make it engaging for various ages.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for scenic views of the native bush, the clear water streams, and the historic Sam Summers Hut. The old mining track also offers unique photographic opportunities.
Mornings can offer softer light and fewer crowds, while afternoons provide good light for capturing the details of the bush and the hut.
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the beauty of the loop. However, a camera with good low-light capabilities might be beneficial if you're there near dawn or dusk.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the trail. Sturdy footwear is a must for everyone. If you have a dog, this is a great walk to bring them along, as it's known to be dog-friendly, much to the delight of many visitors.
🐾 Dog Owners
While dogs are welcome, it's important to be a responsible pet owner. Keep your dog on a leash where required, especially in areas where the trail might be narrow or close to other walkers. Ensure your dog is comfortable with moderate hiking distances and terrain. Bringing extra water for your dog is also a good idea.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Sam Summers Hut
Walking the loop provides an opportunity to reflect on the lives of those who lived and worked in this area generations ago. The trail itself follows parts of old mining tracks, further emphasizing the historical context of the hike. Understanding the history behind the hut enriches the experience, transforming a simple walk into a journey through time. It’s a chance to connect with the pioneering spirit that shaped this part of New Zealand.
Navigating the Mt Crichton Loop
Pay close attention to the trail surface; the loop incorporates an old mining track, which can be uneven and rocky. Sturdy hiking boots are essential for comfort and safety. If you're unsure about the path, it's better to pause and consult your map than to proceed on an unmarked trail. Remember that while the loop is a popular walk, it's still a natural environment, and preparedness is key to a successful and enjoyable hike.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit