Rakaia Gorge Walkway
A volcanic canyon, a turquoise river, an abandoned coal mine, and one of Canterbury's great half-day walks.
The Rakaia Gorge Walkway is one of Canterbury's most rewarding half-day walks, and it is almost entirely unknown outside the region. Starting from Evans Reserve near the Rakaia Gorge Bridge on State Highway 77, the trail follows the southern bank of the Rakaia River through a landscape that shifts dramatically as you walk — from open farmland terraces to a narrow volcanic canyon of sculpted rock walls, before climbing through native bush to a ridgeline with panoramic views of the Canterbury Plains and Southern Alps.
The geological story told along this walk is extraordinary. The Rakaia River is one of New Zealand's great braided rivers, carrying glacial meltwater and shingle down from the Southern Alps to the Pacific Coast. At the gorge, the river cuts through volcanic rock formed millions of years ago, creating sheer canyon walls in hues of orange, red, and charcoal. Midway through the walk you pass the entry to the Snowdon coal mine — abandoned in the early twentieth century — a tangible connection to Canterbury's early settler history that most visitors walk straight past without realising its significance.
The walkway is graded easy to moderate and is suitable for most fitness levels. The full loop covers approximately 10–12 kilometres and takes 3–4 hours at a comfortable pace, though many visitors do the canyon section out-and-back in half that time. There is also the option of being dropped at the walkway by Discovery Jet and completing the trail as a one-way experience — one of the better adventure-meets-nature combinations in the region.
What to expect
Park at Evans Reserve, just off State Highway 77 on the Methven side of the Rakaia Gorge Bridge. The track is well-marked from the car park. The first section crosses farmland on formed track — easy going with good views back towards Mt Hutt. After 20–30 minutes you enter the canyon itself, where the track narrows, the walls close in and the river below takes on that characteristic turquoise-green glacial colour.
The canyon section is the highlight and should not be rushed. Rock formations, waterfalls, native birdlife — bellbirds, fantails and grey warblers are commonly heard — and at one point a short tunnel cut through the rock add to the sense of discovery. The Snowdon coal mine entry is marked but easy to miss — look for a dark opening in the rock face at approximately the midpoint of the canyon section.
After the canyon the track climbs through mixed native and regenerating bush to the ridgeline. The views from the top are excellent on a clear day — the full sweep of the Canterbury Plains to the coast, Mt Hutt to the southwest, and the braided Rakaia River snaking through its wide shingle bed below. The descent back to the car park is straightforward.
Best time to visit
The walk is excellent in all seasons but is at its most dramatic in autumn (March–May) when the surrounding vegetation turns gold and the river runs clear after summer. Spring (September–November) brings native flowers and high bird activity. In winter the canyon can be icy and caution is needed on the rock sections — waterproof footwear is essential. Summer mornings before 10am are ideal to avoid the heat of the Canterbury Plains.
Insider tips
- ✓Wear sturdy footwear — the canyon section has uneven rock surfaces and can be wet from seepage even in dry weather.
- ✓Bring more water than you think you'll need. There is no water supply on the track and the canyon section gets surprisingly warm when sheltered from the wind.
- ✓Ask Discovery Jet about their drop-off option — they will deliver you by jet boat to the base of the walkway, letting you do the trail one-way with a jet boat adventure included.
- ✓The gorge is excellent for photography — the best light on the canyon walls is mid-morning. Afternoon light is better for the ridgeline views.
- ✓Do not enter the Snowdon coal mine — it is unstable and access is not permitted.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Rakaia Gorge Walkway take?
The full loop walkway is 10–12 kilometres and takes 3–4 hours at a comfortable walking pace. The canyon section alone (out and back) takes 1.5–2 hours and is the most popular option for visitors with limited time.
Is the Rakaia Gorge Walkway suitable for children?
The walk is suitable for children of primary school age and above with reasonable fitness. The canyon section involves some uneven terrain and a narrow path — young children should be supervised closely near the river edge. The initial farmland section is easy and fine for all ages.
Is the Rakaia Gorge Walkway free?
Yes, the Rakaia Gorge Walkway is free of charge and open year-round during daylight hours. There is free parking at Evans Reserve off State Highway 77.
Where do I park for the Rakaia Gorge Walkway?
Park at Evans Reserve, just off State Highway 77 on the south side of the Rakaia Gorge Bridge, approximately 17km northeast of Methven (20-minute drive). The track starts from the reserve car park.
Practical information
Hours
Open year-round, daylight hours
Price
Free
Location
Rakaia Gorge Bridge, State Highway 77, 17km northeast of Methven (17km northeast of Methven)
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