The Snow Farm in Cardrona Valley is a perfect place for first time cross country skiers to venture out into this environment. Located on 310ha and between 1400m and 1600m, it is New Zealand’s only groomed cross-country ski field.

A round trip with a night in a hut follows the sometimes babbling, sometimes frozen solid Roaring Meg. The trip incorporates the River Run and The Loop tracks.

It takes about half an hour on skis to reach the hut on a groomed trail. Meadow Hut (sleeps 25) has a feel of a Swiss chalet with its high ceiling and wood panelling. Its kitchen is well appointed, with four gas cookers and plenty of pots, cups, dishes and cutlery, while the wood stove warms the hut and provides a steady supply of hot water.

From here, there are numerous trips that can be made to explore the vicinity. Bob Lee Hut (sleeps 12) is a few kilometres away and the Pisa Range is easily accessed in a couple of hours.