Crown Range Road
New Zealand, oceania
67 km
1,076 m
moderate
Year-round, but best views October-April
The Crown Range Road is New Zealand's highest sealed (paved) road, climbing to 1,076 meters as it connects Queenstown to Wanaka across the Crown Range in the South Island's Central Otago region. The 67-kilometer route is the most direct road between these two popular resort towns and offers a far more dramatic alternative to the longer highway route via Cromwell.
The road climbs steeply from the Kawarau Gorge through a series of tight switchbacks with spectacular views back over the Wakatipu Basin and the Remarkables mountain range. At the summit, a short walk leads to a lookout with 360-degree views encompassing Lake Wakatipu, Lake Wanaka, and the surrounding peaks. The descent into the Cardrona Valley passes the iconic Cardrona Hotel (built in 1863) and the Cardrona ski field. In winter, the summit can be snowbound and chains may be required, adding an extra dimension of adventure to the crossing.
Where is it?
Crown Range Road is located in Central Otago, New Zealand (oceania). Coordinates: -44.9547, 168.9427
Driving Tips
Check road conditions in winter as the summit can close due to snow and ice. Chains may be required from June to September. The Queenstown side has the steepest switchbacks. Stop at the summit lookout for incredible photos. The Cardrona Hotel on the Wanaka side makes a great lunch stop. Allow about 1.5 hours including photo stops.
Road Surface
Paved, steep switchbacks on Queenstown side, well-maintained
Road Details
- Country
- New Zealand
- Continent
- oceania
- Region
- Central Otago
- Length
- 67 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,076 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Surface
- Paved, steep switchbacks on Queenstown side, well-maintained
- Best Season
- Year-round, but best views October-April
- Coordinates
- -44.9547, 168.9427
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