Guide to Devils Punchbowl Waterfall in Arthur's Pass New Zealand

Guide to Devils Punchbowl Waterfall in Arthur's Pass New Zealand

Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfall in Arthur’s Pass is an impressive but easily accessible 131 meter waterfall that falls into the incredible Arthur’s Pass National Park. A complete guide to visiting these Devils Punchbowl Falls with everything you need to know!

One of the best and therefore most popular activities around Arthur’s Pass is visiting the mighty Devil’s Punchbowl waterfall. After just a short hike through native forests and boardwalks, hikers reach a viewing platform that offers incredible views and photo opportunities of this spectacular, towering waterfall.

In this guide I will describe everything you need to know about visiting Devils Punchbowl Falls, including how to get there, what to expect and taking photos of my visit.

How to get to Devils Punchbowl Waterfall New Zealand?

The short trail to Devil’s Punchbowl waterfall is just 700 meters north of the Arthur’s Pass Visitor Center. There is ample parking available both at the visitor center and in the designated parking lot for the waterfall itself.

I have pinpointed the exact location of the parking area for access to the Devils Punhbowl track below.

Google Maps Pin: “Devil’s Punchbowl Carpark”

COMPLETE GUIDE: 9 EPIC THINGS IN ARTHUR’S PASS

Devils Punchbowl Waterfall Hiking Trail

Hiking time: Short – 45 minutes return.
Difficulty: Easy (2KM)

From the parking lot there are clear signposts showing the direction to the waterfall. The short walk begins at the bridge and continues upwards, climbing slightly into the lush beech forest before ending 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 solution that is easily accessible from the highway.

Although short, this waterfall trail is scenic and offers a great taste of the incredible natural diversity of the Arthur's Pass region.
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Looking for more challenge? – Avalanche Peak Hike in Arthur’s Pass

What to Expect at Devils Punchbowl Waterfall Arthur’s Pass

Waterfall height: 131 meters

This waterfall is very high and cascades down the steep mountain wall behind the viewing platform. Steep rocky outcrops surround the falls, forming the “punchbowl” for which it is named.

Although very accessible, in my opinion it was one of the most spectacular waterfalls in New Zealand!
alt=“DEVILS PUNCHBOWL WATERFALL NEW ZEALAND”>View from the viewing platform of the Devil’s Punchbowl waterfall
Unfortunately, access to the actual waterfall is prohibited due to the dangerous rockfall surrounding the falls. But don't worry, that doesn't mean you won't get a great view of the waterfall.

The DOC has built a wooden viewing platform, 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 that cascades wildly down the mossy rocks below.

Here are some more photos of Devils Punchbowl Waterfall in New Zealand to inspire your quick visit to the waterfall.
alt=“DEVILS PUNCHBOWL WATERFALL NEW ZEALAND”>Devils Punchbowl Falls
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Overnight accommodation in Arthur’s Pass

Motel: Arthur’s Pass Alpine MotelOne of the best rated and best value 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 checking off all the epic activities in Arthur's Pass!

Check price and availability for your travel dates here
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Hostel: Arthur’s Pass YHAThe YHA at Arthur’s Pass is the only youth hostel or backpacker spot in the area. If you want to get out of the car and spend a night indoors then this is a great budget bet.

Check price and availability for your travel dates here
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Entire Apartment: The NookWhile I didn't stay here, if you're in a larger group or 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.

Check price and availability for your travel dates here
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More activities and sights around Arthur’s Pass

I hope you enjoyed this quick guide to visiting Devils Punchbowl in Arthur’s Pass, New Zealand. Below are some more blogs and guides for things to do around Arthur's Pass, including epic hikes and viewpoints you won't want to miss.

Hiking? Start with this guide to the 31 best hikes in the South Island.

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MY CAMERA AND PHOTO EQUIPMENT

• Spiegellose Kamera: Canon R5
• Drohne: DJI Mavic Pro 2
• 360-Grad-Action-Kamera: Insta360 One X2
• Landschaftsobjektiv: Canon RF 15-35 mm f/2.8L
• Allround-Objektiv: Canon RF 24–105 mm f/4L
• Teleobjektiv: Canon RF 100–500 mm f/f/4,5–7,1 L
• Lange Aktionsstange: Insta360 Invisible Pole (BulletTime)
• Landschaftslinsenfilter: Hoya Circular Polarizer
• Kamerarucksack: F-Stop Tilopa
• Lieblingsfotozubehör: Peak Design Capture Clip

For a list of my recommended photography gear (including what I use and why), check out my Travel Camera Gear Guide.

If you would like to use any of the photos on this website, please visit my licensing page to find out how. I also sell professional art prints, visit my Print Store or contact me directly for customs deductions of images on We Seek Travel.
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