Trans-Alpine
Crossings & Traverses
Epic Mountain Journeys through the Southern Alps
The Best Trans-Alpine Crossings & Traverses
The Best Trans-Alpine Crossings & Traverses
Epic High-Country Journeys through the Southern Alps
For those seeking the ultimate alpine adventure, New Zealand’s trans-alpine crossings and alpine traverses offer some of the most challenging and rewarding multi-day treks in the world. These routes take you across remote mountain passes, glacial valleys, and breathtaking ridgelines, providing unparalleled access to the heart of the Southern Alps. Whether you’re an experienced trekker looking for a true mountaineering challenge or an adventurer eager to push your limits in the backcountry, these traverses promise an unforgettable journey through New Zealand’s wild alpine landscapes.
Ball Pass Crossing
Aoraki / Mount Cook’s Ultimate Alpine Challenge
A technical high-alpine crossing over Ball Pass (2,121m), offering incredible views of Aoraki / Mount Cook, the Hooker Glacier, and the Tasman Glacier.
This challenging route requires mountaineering skills, but going with an NZMGA qualified guide makes it accessible to fit and experienced hikers.
Copland / Fitzgerald Pass
A Classic Mountain Journey
Once an historic tramping route, the "modern" Copland Pass alpine crossing follows the Jubilee Route to Fitzgerald Pass. The challenging high-alpine route connects Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park to the West Coast, and requires technical mountaineering skills to navigate steep snow slopes, glaciers, and rugged terrain.
At 2,150m, this remote crossing offers spectacular views of Aoraki / Mount Cook and the Southern Alps, making it a rewarding guided adventure and unforgettable experience for experienced trekkers and aspiring mountaineers.
Brodrick Pass
A True Wilderness Adventure
The Brodrick Pass alpine crossing is a remote and exhilarating journey through the heart of the Southern Alps, combining high-alpine trekking with an unforgettable rafting experience.
After traversing the spectacular 1,630m Brodrick Pass, the adventure continues with a thrilling raft descent down the wild and scenic Landsborough River, offering a perfect blend of mountain solitude and whitewater excitement.
Why Choose a Guided Alpine Traverse?
✔ Expert Leadership – Experienced IFMGA & NZMGA qualified guides ensure your safety, navigation, and comfort in challenging alpine conditions.
✔ Stress-Free Adventure – No need to worry about route-finding, river crossings, or weather planning—just focus on enjoying the journey.
✔ Maximize the Experience – Learn about mountaineering techniques, local geology, and high-country history from your guide.
✔ Equipment Provided – Alpine Recreation provides quality, modern trekking and mountaineering equipment.
✔ Small Group Experience – Enjoy a personalized adventure with like-minded trekkers.
Embark on Your Next Alpine Adventure
New Zealand’s trans-alpine crossings and alpine traverses offer some of the most exhilarating and scenic multi-day hikes in the Southern Alps. Whether you’re tackling a technical mountaineering route or embarking on a remote wilderness journey, our expert IFMGA & NZMGA qualified guides will help you make it happen — safely, confidently, and with unforgettable memories.
Are you ready to explore New Zealand’s most iconic alpine routes?
