Sudden Valley, Arthurs Pass NP

The weather was looking sketchy, so we chose a quick foray up into Sudden Valley for a nosey at a potential canyon. Grey skies but mild temperatures greeted us at Hawdon Shelter where we kitted up and began up the valley. Crossing the Hawdon was a bit of a wake up call, but we were able to warm up trudging up the gravel of lower Sudden Valley.

Crossing the Hawdon River below Pyramid Peak

Heading up the lower Sudden Valley

As the valley tightened, we were forced to cross and re-cross an angry looking river that smashed its way through huge boulders and gnarly gorge. The river was running clear but very full, so we only made it a few crossings upstream before we chose to beat a hasty retreat. The grey skies above made us uneasy and the feelings were vindicated when it began to rain lightly on us when we stopped for lunch at a safe spot downstream. Neat trip, more exploring required when the water is lower!

Time to get gorgey


Delicate traverse above white death

Lower Sudden valley, Woolshed Hill behind.