Can you drive Skippers Canyon?
New Zealand, oceania
17.4 km
90 m
extreme
Year-round
Skippers Canyon Road, nestled in the southwest of New Zealand's South Island, is one of those roads that's as famous for its scenery as it is for its sheer audacity. Carved by hand over 140 years ago by miners, this 17.4 km (10.81 miles) unpaved track clings to the side of a cliff, high above the Shotover River, running from Coronet Peak Road to Skippers Campground.
Picture this: a narrow cut, barely wide enough for one vehicle in places, winding its way along a cliff face with serious drop-offs. Mostly one-way, for 6km there's absolutely nowhere to turn around! There are no guardrails, so you're relying on your driving skills and a healthy dose of courage.
It’s beautiful, there’s no doubt about that, with stunning backcountry views and rocky outcrops sculpted by the back-breaking labor of Chinese miners. But be warned: this isn’t a Sunday drive. The road throws everything at you: winding turns, gravel, potential rockfalls, steep drops, and even animals popping out. The recommended speed is a snail's pace of 15 km/h for a reason!
Most rental car companies won't cover you if you drive here, which tells you everything you need to know. Think 4x4 vehicle only, and leave the caravans and trailers at home. In winter, snow can shut things down completely.
The road's history is as rugged as the landscape. Built during the gold rush between 1883 and 1890, it was an engineering marvel of its time, carved out of solid rock using black gunpowder and hand drills. It took 22 years! Even today, it looks much the same as it did back then.
Despite its challenging nature, Skippers Canyon Road has become a major tourist attraction. People come from all over to experience the thrill of the drive, to bungy jump, or to go white-water rafting. It's even been featured in movies like *Lord of the Rings* and *Mission: Impossible*. This is not just a road; it's an experience etched into the very rock of New Zealand's history.
Road Details
- Country
- New Zealand
- Continent
- oceania
- Length
- 17.4 km
- Max Elevation
- 90 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
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