Lewis Pass facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lewis Pass |
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 Location in New Zealand
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| Elevation | 907 m (2,976 ft) |
| Traversed by | State Highway 7 |
| Location | New Zealand |
| Range | Southern Alps |
| Coordinates | 42°22′47″S 172°24′00″E / 42.3797°S 172.4°E |
Lewis Pass is a famous mountain pass located in the South Island of New Zealand. It stands 907 meters (about 2,976 feet) high. A mountain pass is like a natural pathway through mountains, making it easier to travel from one side to another.
This pass is the most northern of the three main routes that cross the Southern Alps. The Southern Alps are a long mountain range that runs along the South Island. Lewis Pass is taller than Haast Pass but a little shorter than Arthur's Pass.
State Highway 7 goes right through Lewis Pass. This important road connects the northern part of the Canterbury area with the West Coast. As you drive through the pass, you'll see lots of untouched native beech forest.
What is Lewis Pass?
Lewis Pass is a low point, or "saddle," between two river valleys. To the northwest, you'll find the valley of the Maruia River. To the southeast, there's the valley of the Lewis River.
Near the pass, there's a small place called Maruia Springs. This spot is known for its natural hot springs, which are a great place to relax.
History of Lewis Pass
Lewis Pass is named after a man named Henry Lewis. He was a surveyor, which means he measured land. In April 1860, Henry Lewis and Christopher Maling were the first Europeans to find this pass. They were working for the Nelson Provincial Survey Department at the time.
However, the pass was known and used long before Europeans arrived. The Ngāi Tahu Māori people from Canterbury used this pass. They traveled across it to carry a special green stone called Pounamu from the west coast. Pounamu is very important to Māori culture and is used for tools, weapons, and jewelry.
Nature and Activities
The land around Lewis Pass is very special. It is protected as a national reserve. This means the natural environment is kept safe and wild for everyone to enjoy.
There are many fun outdoor activities you can do in the Lewis Pass area.
- Tramping: This is what New Zealanders call hiking or long walks. There are several tramping routes, including the famous St James Walkway.
- Alpine Nature Walk: If you prefer a shorter walk, there's a loop track called the Alpine Nature Walk. It goes around an alpine wetland and a small lake called a tarn. You can easily get to this walk from a carpark near the pass.
These activities allow visitors to explore the beautiful forests and unique landscapes of the Southern Alps.
