St James Walkway

This track passes through pastoral land, beech forest and sub-alpine regions, and is a great introduction to multi-night tramping.

The St James Walkway is commonly done over 5 days / 4 nights. It's suitable for both beginners and experienced trampers.

For family groups the descent into Cannibal Gorge is a shorter walk along a well formed, boardwalked track.

Ensure you stay on the formed track on the section from Magdalen Hut to Boyle village as this crosses private property.

Visit the DOC website for hut information and information on what to pack.

Getting there

The track is about one hour from Hanmer Springs.

Both ends of the track are on SH7 (Lewis Pass Road) - one end is near the top of Lewis Pass, and the other end is at Boyle Village.

Public transport

There are shuttle services providing transport around the St James Conservation Area. Please contact directly to make a booking.

• Hanmer Springs Adventure Centre (03) 315 7233 or 021 225 2292 info@hanmeradventure.co.nz
• Hanmer Springs TA Shuttle 027 466 7305
• Hanmer Tours and Shuttle (03) 315 7418

Car parking

Car parking is available at both entrances, but the Boyle area is more secure. Vandals have been known to target the area so:

• Don't leave valuables in your vehicle.
• Consider using more public parking sites – Boyle River Outdoor Education Centre offers secure parking and a drop off service. Book in advance, phone +64 3 315 7082.
• Report any suspicious activity to the police.

If you have your own transport you should begin the walk from the top end of the Lewis Pass and finish at the car park near Boyle settlement. You can use the bus service to travel back up to the Lewis Pass end or the Boyle River Education Centre "shuttle and park" service.

Thank you to the Department of Conversation for track information.