Expeditions · St James
Fowlers Circuit
The four-day crossing — alpine passes, river valleys and hot springs. Original or Freedom Edition.
4 days / 3 nightsDuration
~45 kmDistance
ExperiencedDifficulty
NZD 4,500 / personPrice
10+Minimum age
110 kgMax rider weight
01
Over the Mountain Pass
Fowlers Hut up over Fowlers Pass (1,296 m) to the historic Stanley Vale Hut. Dramatic ridgelines, alpine air and your first creek crossings.
02
Down the Stanley Valley
Open valley floors, river terraces and gentle undulating country down to a wilderness camp at Pool Hut.
03
To the Hot Springs
Multiple creek and river crossings lead to the Cow Stream natural hot pools. Soak away the trail under an open sky. (On the Freedom Edition, this is your full free-riding day.)
04
Ride Out
A relaxed final leg from Cow Stream out to the St James Homestead. Easy terrain, big memories, early-afternoon arrival.
Packed by hand,
carried by horse.
What’s in the saddlebag
Included
- Experienced private guide on every trip
- Well-trained horses matched to your level
- Western saddles & tack, helmets
- Canvas tipi tents with wood stoves
- Sleeping mats & all camp equipment
- Camp breakfasts & dinners, hot drinks
- Pack horses for your gear
- First-aid kits & satellite comms
Bring your own
- Lunches & snacks for riding days
- Sleeping bag (alpine-rated; rental available)
- Waterproof jacket & sturdy footwear
- Warm layers (nights near 0°C)
- Transport to the trailhead (self-drive)
