Hokitika Gorge Walkway

Distance: 1.2 km Time: 45 min There are multiple viewpoints along this track, save some for your return to the carpark. This track is accessible for wheelchairs with assistance. From the western end of the carpark it’s an easy undulating 15 minute walk through mature nature forest to a viewpoint overlooking the river and farmland land of the upper Hokitika Valley. After a further 250 m of wandering track, the Upper Hokitika Gorge Suspension Bridge enters the forest canopy of Miro, Rimu, and Kamahi as it passes over a flood channel and an island before crossing the main channel of the Hokitika Gorge. The bridge offers spectacular views of the Hokitika Gorge, mature forested surrounds and the foothills of the Southern Alps. From the bridge the tracks follows the river edge, with a curved gantry providing further river views and the impressive structure of the upper Hokitika Gorge suspension bridge and mountains in the background. After 5 minutes of easy walking the track crosses Elf Creek, where from the bridge you can see how the water has sculptured the granite bedrock. Just past here a further viewing platform offers more views of the river and steep sided walls of the gorge. The track continues to wind through mature forest with river views and curved boardwalks taking you past small waterfalls with the blue-green river glimpsed through the trees. The track continues for another 200 m through the bush, crossing a small bridge to a second viewing platform looking out to the gorge, both up and down stream. Access to a small beach is also available here. Be sure to take time to read the warning signs and close the gate after you. Return to the carpark the way you came. Times and distances (one way)Hokitika Valley viewpoint: 650 m, 15 min Upper Gorge suspension bridge: 900 m, 30 min Lower Gorge viewing platform: 1.2 km, 45 mins.