Has anyone ever been to Arthur's Pass? What is there to do if we were to spend a few hours there, waiting for the Transalpine train to return to Christchurch?I've been told that we'll be stuck with nothing to do if it rains-is this true?

AL:<BR>Been to Arthur's Pass. You about have it right. We took the motor coach from CHC to Arthur's Pass, had lunch at a quaint Bavarian restaurant (It's name escapes me) and caught the train back to CHC. The food was excellent.<BR>I don't think we were there 3 hours total (in Arthur's Pass, not the restaurant). There's a welcoming center there where campers and hikers leave messages and where you can read about the area. But that's about it.<BR>The highlight of the trip is the train ride back to CHC. Beautiful. Sit on the North side of the train for a great view of the many gorges.<BR>Chances are it'll be raining at the Pass. I forget what the elevation is but it's way up there.<BR>John

Thanks John for the advice.I'm a bit confused though.I read somewhere on this Board that one should sit on the North side of the train and left side- which is which?When you say North side, do you mean the front end of the train as opposed to the last carriage being the south end?From your experience, does the left side of the train mean the left side on the going trip or the return journey?and does left side mean the left whilst facing the front of the train?<BR>Hope you can help me out here.Thanks.

What time of the year do you intend to go to Arthur's Pass? Arthur's Pass is very beautiful and if you like to hike there are some great walks in the area. It is very quiet and it if is raining you may be inside alot. The train ride is beautiful. Good luck!<BR>Art

I'll be going at the end of Nov. Yes, I would love to walk or hike around there but something easy as I have 2 young kids with me.

AL:<BR>For simplicity's sake, let's say the train from Arthur's Pass to CHC is headed East. (Actually it's headed Southeast) Just sit on the left side of the train as it heads to CHC. That will be the North side.<BR>We were also there in November. It was raining.<BR>John