Remarkables Grand Traverse

One of the most breathtaking alpine rock climb in New Zealand

The Remarkables Grand Traverse Climb

The Grand Traverse of Double Cone and Single Cone, nestled in New Zealand’s Remarkables, is an alpine rock ascent that reaches 2,319 meters. This climb – aka the Remarks GT – demands both physical endurance and technical finesse as climbers navigate through rugged rock formations, exposed ridges, and steep walls. The journey’s allure lies not only in its challenges but also in the breathtaking rewards it offers. Panoramic views of the Southern Alps, the sparkling expanse of Lake Wakatipu, and picturesque valleys unveil at every turn, forging an intimate bond between adventurers and the surrounding landscape. The Grand Traverse stands as a testament to the captivating beauty of New Zealand’s alpine realm, attracting those seeking a profound connection with nature while testing their limits in an unforgettable setting.

CLIMBING/ROUTE DESCRIPTION

Remarkables Grand Traverse is alpine rock day trip. First, we do the 1.5hrs to 2hrs approach to the base of the ridge. Then we climb the ridge to the first summit of Double Cone. After a short down climb, a steep wall leads us to the second summit of Double Cone. We finnish the traverse after another down climb and a some slab climbing, at the summit of Single Cone.

The descent follows the South East Couloir of Single Cone, and the walk back to Lake alta the the Car Park.

Climbing difficulty

The Grand Traverse Double Cone is considered to be an “advanced climb”

It required good mountain fitness, and some climbing/scrambling experience.

The technical grade of The Grand Traverse of Double Cone is NZ 2 // equivalent to European AD-

The technical climbing grade doesn’t exeed 15 Ewbank / 5a French

A day trip, but a nice and challenging one!

Why Choose Summit Explorers ?

Years of guiding experience, safety focused, flexible and adaptative to your needs, fun, smiling…. Summit Explorers mountain guides are always going above and beyond for you to have the best trip and mountain experience!

 

Not sure if this climb is right for you?

We have help plenty of climbers and skiers to achieve their dreams, we can help you making yours come true.

Just reach out to us and will discuss together wether you are up for this trip or you will need to build more experience, we will help you to create a custum journey to achieve your goal.  

CONTACT US

Remarkables Grand Traverse

From NZ$ 550

Day Trip

ROUTE

Grand Traverse

DATES

November to May for a Summer Climb

June to October for a Winter Climb

CLIMBING DIFFICULTY

Advanced

CLIENT TO GUIDE RATIO

1:1 to 2:1  client/guide

Itinerary

You meet your guide for the day at 8am at the bottom of the Remarkables Ski Field Road or at your accomodation.

After greetings, a good warm coffee and a gear check, you will drive up the road to the Remarkables together, then start the 1.5hrs to 2hrs approach walk the start of the Double Cone Grand Traverse climb.

After a nice break, a snack and a sip of water, you will continue climbing on the ridge, roped up with your guide.

A couple of hours of climbing on the exposed ridge, with stunning views over Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu, you will reach the first summit of Double Cone.

From there, A little down climb to a breche,  then a steep wall, leads to the second summit of Double Cone.

Another down climbing section, will take you to the final slabs just below the summit of Single Cone, the highest peak of the Remarkables mountain range.

Congratulations, you have just completed the Grand Traverse of the Remarkables!!

After a well deserve break, with a stumning 360º view,  a mandatory summit shot, it’s time to start the descent which consist of some short but exposed down climbing, then 1 or 2 rappels. A nice walk down to Lake Alta will make you appreciate the climb as well as a dip into the cold water, as it’s always a welcome option in the hot summer months!

Dates & Pricing

1:1 Ascent

NZ$ 1050/pp

1:2 Ascent

NZ$ 550/pp

DATES

1 Day trip

November to May for a Summer climb

June to October for a Winter climb

PRICES INCLUDE
  • IFMGA/NZMGA Mountain Guide
  • Ground transport from Wanaka
  • Technical climbing gear
  • GST
PRICES DO NOT INCLUDE
  • Personal equipment
  • Appropriate climbing clothes
  • Personal Insurance
  • Cancellation Insurance
  • Snaks and lunch for the day
ADD-ON WEATHER DAY

NZ$ 650/pp

MORE INFO

Frequently Asked Questions

What If the weather is bad from my trip ?

The Southern Alps in New Zealand is a worldwide desired climbing and skiing destination due to its remoteness and wilderness beauty. Windows of nice settled weather between fronts are oftern in place. But as for all mountain ranges in the world, the Southern Alps also has challenging weather. After all, it’s a long, high mountain range located on a tiny island surounded by the Tasman Sea and the Southern Pacific Ocean…

Summit Explorers Mountain Guides are well experienced in judging the weather and conditions to provide you the best possible trip. They will go above and beyond to make the trip happen. But sometimes, it’s out of our control, so  if the weather remains terrible and prevents the trip from happenning as originally planned, you will be offered a different location and/or climb. There will be no refund for bad weather and conditions. However, depending of the agreement and avaibility of the guide, an arrangment could be discussed to postpone the trip at a different date. 

EXTRA WEATHER DAY, WHAT IS IT?

It’s a NON-GUIDED day, to add-on at the begining and/or the end of your trip at the time of booking, to guaranty the availiability of the guide, in the event of bad weather and the trip’s dates have to be shiftted slightly. The price per Weather Day is NZ$650 and does not include accomodation or meals.

Terms and Conditions

Please visit our Booking terms and conditions page

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