Mt Philistine - 3 October 2026

Mt Philistine (Arthur's Pass)

Mt Philistine is located above Arthur's Pass. This is a day climb through the Warnocks Bluff route and has ~1250 m of ascent.

Itinerary:

Meet at Z-Russley 6am, Drive Otira Valley Track car Park, up the track, regrouping at the bridge crossing, before heading up Warlock ridge, then up to Mt Philistine

6:00am - Depart Russley Gas station
8:00am – Arrive at Otira Valley Track car Park
~1.7km & ~100m elevation to Otira valley foot bridge, turn NE to head up Warlock ridge

Get to the top of Warlock Ridge ~0.7km & ~220m Elevation 

At the top of the ridge turn North to go up Warlock Bluff

Turn West

11:30 noon Summit Phillistine 

Walk along ridge to Pt 1956 then back down.

Plan B: Lockwood Shelter, Cassidy, Blimit, Temple Col Loop.


Plan C: Hogs back, long spur, Mt Cloudesley 

Previous experience required: Basic snow skills (use of crampons and ice axe), good level of fitness and happy walking in Crampons.

Gear required: Normal daypack (i.e. water bottle, food, warm suitable clothing including waterproof jacket, gloves and windproof pants), sunglasses, helmet, ice axe, crampons required.

Questions: If you have any questions about the trip, feel free to contact [email protected]

Resources:

https://climbnz.org.nz/nz/si/arthurs-pass/mt-philistine/warnocks-bluff