Crown Range Road - Queenstown

The highest main road in New Zealand is between Wanaka and Queenstown. Driving the Crown Range Road is the slower of two options between these two popular towns. It is a scenic slower route and is shorter than the main highway. Expect to be slowed down by sightseers as well. The Crown Range Road goes up to 1,121 meters with expansive views over the Arrow Valley, and across to the Remarkables Range. From the Queenstown side, look for the clearly marked turnoff just past Lake Hayes. The road zigzags up to the Crown Terrace and from there you can look down to Arrowtown in the Arrow Valley, and across to the Remarkables Range. The road then climbs steeply to the summit, where you'll be able to see Frankton, part of Lake Wakatipu and Queenstown. At the summit, you can hike a short distance to a viewpoint or just take in the views from the parking area. On the Wanaka side, the scenery is less dramatic. On the left is the Crown Range, on the right the Criffle Range. In winter, chains are often required.