Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfall in Arthur’s Pass is an impressive, yet easily accessible 131-metre waterfall falling in the incredible Arthur’s Pass National Park. A complete guide to visiting this Devils Punchbowl falls with everything you need to know!
One of the best, and consequently most popular things to do around Arthur’s Pass is to visit the powerful Devil’s Punchbowl waterfall. After only a short hike through native forest and board-walk paths, walkers will arrive at a viewing platform, offering incredible views and photo opportunities of this spectacular towering waterfall.
In this guide, I’ll detail everything you need to know about visiting Devils Punchbowl falls, including how to get here, what to expect and photography from my visit.
How to Get to Devils Punchbowl Waterfall New Zealand
The short walking track to Devil's Punchbowl waterfall is located just 700 metres north of the Arthur's Pass visitor center. There are plenty of car park spaces both at the visitor center and at the designated car park for the waterfall itself.
I've pinned the exact location of the car park to access the Devils Punhbowl track below.
- Google Maps Pin: "Devil's Punchbowl Carpark"
Devils Punchbowl Waterfall Walking Track
- Hike duration: Short - 45 minutes return.
- Difficulty: Easy (2 km)
There are clear signposts indicating the direction to the waterfall from the car park. The short walk begins at the bridge, and continues up, climbing slightly into the lush beech forest before finishing at a wooden viewing platform just below the falls.
The short walk to Devils Punchbowl waterfall can't really be considered a hike. It's more of a short, boarded leisure walk. This is great news for people looking for a quick waterfall fix that is easily accessible from the highway.
While it is short, this waterfall walk is scenic and a great taste of the incredible natural diversity of the Arthur's Pass region.
Looking for more of a challenge? - Avalanche Peak Hike in Arthur's Pass
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What to Expect at Devils Punchbowl Waterfall Arthur's Pass
- Waterfall height: 131 metres
This waterfall is very tall and plunges heavily down the steep mountain face beyond the viewing platform. Steep rock shelves surround the falls creating the "punchbowl" in which it's named.
Although this one is very accessible, it was, in my opinion, one of the most spectacular waterfalls in New Zealand!
Unfortunately, access to the actual waterfall is prohibited due to the dangerous rockfall present around the falls. Don't worry though, this doesn't mean you don't get a great view of the waterfall.
The DOC has built a wooden viewing platform that is perfect for setting up a tripod or just enjoying the view. From here, you'll get a view of the Devils Punchbowl waterfall and the stream running fiercely down the mossy rocks below.
Here are some more photos of Devils Punchbowl waterfall New Zealand to inspire your quick in-and-out waterfall visit.
Where to Stay in Arthur's Pass
- Motel: Arthur's Pass Alpine Motel
One of the best-reviewed and bang-for-buck motels in the area is the famous Alpine Motel. These rooms offer kitchen facilities and great views of the valley and surrounding mountains. It's a great place to sit and relax after ticking off all of the epic things to do in Arthur's Pass! - Hostel: Arthur’s Pass YHA - The YHA at Arthur’s Pass is the only youth hostel or backpacker place in the area. If you’re looking to get out of the car and spend a night indoors, then this is a great bet on a budget.
- Entire Apartment: The Nook - While I didn't stay here, if you're in a larger group or if you'd prefer an entire apartment, then you can't go wrong with The Nook. This place offers a private bathroom, bedroom, living room, and mountain views.
More Things to Do and See Around Arthur's Pass
I hope that you enjoyed this quick guide to visiting Devils Punchbowl in Arthur's Pass, New Zealand. Below you'll find some more blogs and guides for things to do around Arthur's Pass, including epic hikes and viewpoints not to miss.
Into hiking? Start with this guide to the 31 Best Hikes in the South Island.
