Pros & cons
PROS
- Direct roadside access on SH73 to the Temple Basin Track
- Gateway to big alpine views, including Mt Rolleston
CONS
- No picnic tables, shelter, toilets, or water at the car park
- Small roadside parking area with limited space
Overview
This is the simple roadside starting point for the Temple Basin Track, about 5 km north of Arthur’s Pass village on SH73. Despite the name some maps use, there’s no developed picnic area here—treat it as a basic car park and launchpad for the steep climb to Temple Basin.
What’s Here (and What Isn’t)
- Basic parking only. No tables, shelter, toilets, or drinking water.
- Exposed to alpine weather and highway wind; bring your own seating if you plan a tailgate-style snack.
- Pack out all rubbish.
The Track from Here
From the car park the Temple Basin Track climbs steeply on rocky zigzags to the ski club buildings and the Lockwood Day Shelter above the bushline. Expect rough, bouldery sections—good footwear (and poles for the descent) make a difference. Allow roughly 2.5–3 hours for the out-and-back, depending on conditions and how far you go. Big views open toward Mt Rolleston as you gain height. A goods lift sits about 800 m west of the car park and sometimes sends bags up to the lodges when operating.
Safety and Seasonal Notes
Weather turns fast in this alpine zone. The marked route effectively ends at the Lockwood Day Shelter; beyond is serious, largely unmarked terrain. From May–November, avalanche danger exists higher up, and in winter the ski area may conduct control work—check for closures and advisories before you go.
Facilities Up the Hill
At the Lockwood Day Shelter you’ll find flushing toilets and running water for day use (bring your own toilet paper). There are no such facilities at the car park itself.
Wildlife and Wildflowers
Kea are known in this area—curious birds that will investigate unattended food and shiny gear. In fine years, alpine flowers typically bloom from November to February, adding a splash of color to the basin.
Best Time to Visit
- Mornings offer cooler temps for the climb and a better shot at parking.
- Weekdays are quieter than weekends.
- Late summer to early autumn generally brings drier, less slippery conditions.
- Photographers get crisp mountain views most of the day; softer light arrives late afternoon, but plan your descent with daylight in mind.
Where it is
-42.9089, 171.5759Tips for Temple Basin Car Park Picnic Area
- 01Bring your own seating, water, and shade if you plan to linger.
- 02Start early for easier parking and cooler temps on the climb.
- 03Allow 2.5–3 hours for the out-and-back, and carry extra layers.
- 04Toilets and water are at Lockwood Day Shelter up the track, not at the car park.
- 05In winter, check avalanche advisories and any ski area control closures before heading up.
Amenities
Near Temple Basin Car Park Picnic Area
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayTemple BasinSteep walk to a classic club ski basin with big alpine viewsTrailhead · Restroom
0.8 mi awayArthur's Pass SummitSummit lookout and Dobson Memorial via an easy alpine strollTrailhead · Parking
0.9 mi awayArthur Dudley Dobson Memorial LookoutRoadside obelisk with sweeping summit viewsPullout · Parking
0.9 mi awayTemple Basin TrackShort, steep climb to big alpine views and a quirky ski basin shelterModerate · 3.1 mi · 2.8 hr
0.9 mi awayTemple Basin Track ViewpointShort, steep hike to sweeping peaks and a handy day shelterParking · Scenic Viewpoint
1.1 mi awayOtira Valley TrackShort alpine valley to a tiny bridge with big Southern Alps viewsModerate · 2.3 mi · 1.5 hr
1.1 mi awayMt Philistine via Otira ValleyShort approach, big alpine punch: bluffs, scree, and glacier viewsChallenging · 5.5 mi · 7 hr
1.1 mi awayBealey Valley TrackQuick forest stroll to Bealey Chasm and Mt Rolleston viewsEasy · 1.5 mi · 48 min
