Situated in the Rakaia Gorge territory, about 5 minutes from Windwhistle, this walk is in an environment of Black Beech, Rata, Horopito and Cabbage trees, Fantails, Bellbirds and Native Falcon. There is an earthy smell of native bush with a canopy of trees leading up to the high bluffs and caves of an ancient canyon, with springs and a waterfall which tumbles down a rugged cliff face.
This area is a unique mix of ecological features that have ecologists and botanists excited.
A rich and fascinating geological story stretching back to antiquity and an archeological trove of Moa bones and artifacts that tell the story of early Canterbury.
The walk takes a gentle meander over a well formed track with convenient seats along the way. At the top of the climb walkers are rewarded with fabulous views over the Canterbury plains to the Pacific ocean. The descent heads into an ancient volcano, tumbling water can be heard as you follow the Washpen creek down to a small lake with a rustic shelter with tables and seating. A place to rest and enjoy the native bird chorus.
This is a private walk, so a fee is charged for maintenance. This includes a Track information guide and the use of a walking stick.
$10.00 Adults
$5.00 Children (under 15 years)
Sorry, No Dogs.
Track walkable all year round, except in extreme weather.
REQUIRING:
Moderate Fitness
Warm clothing
Sturdy footwear
Allocate two hours
Last walkway entry 4.00 p.m.
Finding Washpen Falls Just north of Windwhistle, turn onto Washpen Road (a gravel road) and 400m along you will see a Washpen Falls sign. Follow the farm road through paddocks until you reach an old woodshed where you can park and will find information about the walk. Here you can pick up a brochure to take on the walk. Adjacent to the woolshed is a gate marking the start of the track.
Contact: Jen and Tom McElrea Washpen Falls 590 Washpen Road, Windwhistle, RD2 Darfield Canterbury 7572 Tel/Fax +64 3 318 6813 Mobile: 027 208 6998 Email: washpenfalls@xtra.co.nz Web: www.washpenfalls.co.nz
