Catlins River Walk

The Catlins River Walk presents a meticulously maintained hiking trail that traces the course of the Catlins River, stretching between The Wisp and the Tawanui camping site. The path features occasional short, steep inclines and is conveniently divided into sections, offering the flexibility of walking specific segments via connecting trails stemming from the forestry road.

Each section of the trail can be explored independently, thanks to numerous entry and exit points thoughtfully placed along the route. Here are estimated walking times for each section:

Tawanui to Franks Creek: Approximately 2.5 hours. Franks Creek to Wallis Stream: Approximately 1.5 hours. Wallis Stream to The Wisp: Approximately 1 hour. The initial leg of the journey leads you through an enchanting exotic forest that eventually yields to the presence of silver beech trees. Along the entirety of this route, you'll encounter four wire-rope suspension bridges that gracefully span the Catlins River, granting views of its cascading waterfalls and lively rapids.

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to spot rare avian species like the rifleman and mohua/yellowhead. Towards the Tawanui terminus, many of the silver beech trees play host to the native mistletoe known as Peraxilla colensoi. If you visit in December or January, keep an eye out for the striking scarlet blossoms of this semi-parasitic plant; they are truly a sight to behold.