Devils Punchbowl Walking Track, Arthur's Pass National Park NZ

I first saw Devils Punchbowl Falls from afar on my way down the Scotts Track, from the summit of Avalanche Peak. They were an impressive sight and I thought I would have to visit them one day. It turns out the short track to the falls starts nearby the start/end of the Scotts Track, so we did it that same day. It’s a nice short but steep walk up through beech forest to a viewpoint below the falls. Maps show the falls to be 112m, although the DOC website claims they are 131m. They are big anyway, and worth seeing.

A few people choose to scramble up the hillside to the base of the falls, although there are signs warning of possible rockfall. After a big day already I decided to be satisfied with the views from the end of the official track. I’ve also included a couple of photos from on the Scotts Track, and if you have spare energy you might like to walk up to see these views.

Track notes at the end.

Devils Punchbowl Walking Track: The Scenery

Devils Punchbowl Track, Arthur's Pass National Park — The view from the bridge towards the falls.

Here’s a very short video of the falls…

Here’s a couple of shots taken a shortish way up the Scotts Track, which takes you to the summit of Avalanche Peak. The track starts roughly over the road from the start of the Devils Punchbowl Track.

Avalanche Peak Circuit, Arthur's Pass National Park — The 112m Devils Punchbowl Falls, (or 131m?).

Track Notes

Devils Punchbowl Walking Track, Arthur's Pass National Park — A well formed, short, but steep track with a number of steps. Accessible by all but the infirm.

This well formed track is a relative stroll compared to many walks in the area, however it is a bit steep so perhaps not for the infirm. It’s straightforward and you don’t need any track notes, however there is more information if you want it on the DOC website. The track passes through nice beech forest and starts at the Bealey River.