When Is the Best Time
The best months for this once-in-a-lifetime adventure are during summer from December to April. It is cold in winter, from June to August; the water temperature will be near freezing, and the water level is too high for caving.
A wetsuit is already recommended in April. Hypothermia is an underestimated risk. The water is cold as hell!
We did this adventure twice, once in the summer and again at the beginning of April. We were able to withstand the cold much better with our neoprene. However, the water level in April was much higher than in February.
The Broken River Cave is busy during summer; be there either early or late in the day; otherwise, you line up wet and freezing inside the cave instead of enjoying.
Essential to Know
Not advisable with a high water level! The deepest section is situated at the beginning of the cave adventure. If the water level is higher than your waist level, don't continue! It gets pretty cold and strenuous, and the water pressure is immense.
Also, do not enter if it rains; it can cause flooding! If the water of the river is not clear, you also should not enter the cave. The most demanding obstacles at a high water level are the second waterfall (1.50m high) and the last at the end to reach the metal handles.
We did this cave twice in February with a low water level that was easy to manage and in April with a higher water level. It was very challenging; we had to help each other, and although wearing a wetsuit, it was pretty cold. Don't underestimate the length of 600 m wading through the chilly river. Cave Stream Scenic Reserve and Cave Map
Weather Castle Hill
Precipitation occurs throughout the year. The wettest month is October, and the driest is February. The annual rainfall is roughly 1000 mm; Arthurs Pass experiences about 4.500 mm a year. January is the warmest month but, on average, still below 20°C.
During summer, temperatures frequently rise to 25°C. Expect almost freezing temps during winter.
There are just two lodges next to the Cave Stream adventure. The Porters Lodge is situated in the mountains and has more of a hostel character with an excellent restaurant. The other option is the Springfield Motel and Lodge, which offers well-equipped studios and rooms with shared facilities.
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Best Months to Visit
Location and Tips
The Cave Stream Scenic Reserve is located about 50 km from Arthur's Pass. This almost 600 m long limestone cave provides a unique adventure, walking self-guided upstream through a river in pitch darkness.
We did this cave twice, and it always took us half an hour to walk and climb through it. Depending on the water level, it can be utterly challenging to get through the cave.
Persons below 1.60 meters may need assistance to climb up the five waterfalls in the cave stream. The first section of the cave is the deepest. With a high water level climbing up the minor waterfalls, you get utterly wet, at least until your waist. I was fallen into the river when I tried to climb up a waterfall but—luckily wearing a neoprene wetsuit.
When you reach the three-meter-high waterfall at the end, look to the left, and you discover metal handles to climb up. It is hard for smaller people like me to reach. Afterwards, you need to crawl along a chain to get to the exit of the cave.
A good fitness level and some experience would help to master the cave stream without too many difficulties.
Trail to the Entrance of the Cave
From the car park (facilities provided) follow the trail always to the right to get to the entrance. There are two river crossings to reach the cave entrance. If the water level is too high for crossing, don't even think about entering the cave.
Google Maps Location Cave Stream Scenic Reserve Parking
7 Tips for the Caving Adventure
- Check the weather forecast. Don't go while it is raining.
Weather forecast Castle Hill - Cave Stream - Never go alone!
- Always walk upstream!
- Let someone know that you plan to hike through the Broken River Cave!
- Wear proper clothes and shoes, either a wetsuit or woollen clothes like Icebreaker! We saw people in Teva, but consider loose rocks occur in the riverbed.
- Carry an additional torch to find the way in pitch darkness.
- Have a proper meal an hour or so before; much energy is needed on this challenging adventure.
No entrance fee is required.
Nearby are limestone formations known from the Narnia movie: "The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe”.
Disclaimer: I am not responsible for any injury, death, or consequences of any actions taken based on the information provided here. This is just my experience! Always put safety first; don't enter the cave if you are not well prepared or if the river level is too high.
All pictures were taken by me or my husband, Markus. If you wish to use any, get in contact with me, but we take action against picture theft.
Nearby Adventurous Trips
This is an 8 River Crossing Hike into the heart of the Paparoa National Park. It is a bit strenuous and rarely crowded.
If you are into hiking and don't mind getting muddy this steep rainforest hike to the top of Mount Tuhua close to Hokitika is perfect for you.
