Lake Kaniere
& Beyond
Still water, forest tracks, waterfalls and wilder journeys into the mountains: choose the kind of West Coast day that feels right for you.
Choose your own pace
Pack a picnic and settle beside the lake, wander beneath native forest, or make a full day of one of the area’s longer tracks. Conditions can change quickly on the Coast, so check current track and weather information before heading into the backcountry.
Swim, picnic
and pause
The easiest way to enjoy Lake Kaniere: find a quiet edge, unpack lunch and let the mountains do the rest.
Sunny Bight Jetty
A favourite place to swim, linger and photograph the mountains across the water.
Images originally published by Renee Cadigan · Westcoast Wanderer · View original post
Easy forest
walks
Short, unhurried outings for stretching your legs beneath the trees and finding a fresh perspective over the lake.
The Archway
A natural tunnel of native trees and an easy place to pause while travelling around the lake.
Canoe Cove Walk
A gentle forest wander featuring beautiful native trees and a peaceful approach to the lake.
Lake Kaniere Walk Lookout
A scenic viewpoint near the southern end of the lake, lovely for a quiet stop and lunch.
Images originally published by Renee Cadigan · Westcoast Wanderer · View original post
Falls and
creek walks
A rewarding pairing for rainy or fine days, with Dorothy Falls close to the roadside and the creek track offering a little more wandering.
Dorothy Falls
An impressive roadside waterfall and one of the easiest scenic stops around Lake Kaniere.
Dorothy Creek Track
A creekside forest walk where clear water, rocks and native bush make the journey as lovely as the destination.
Images originally published by Renee Cadigan · Westcoast Wanderer · View original post
Bigger mountain
adventures
For prepared walkers seeking elevation and expansive views. Check current Department of Conservation track guidance, weather and daylight before setting out.
Mt Tuhua
A demanding climb beyond the lookout, suited to experienced and well-prepared walkers.
Images originally published by Renee Cadigan · Westcoast Wanderer · View original post
Further into
the wild
Three very different ways to venture farther: a gorge walk, a valley journey and a cycle-trail section beside the lake.
Cess Pools
A rewarding gorge walk with pale rock, clear water and a distinctly wild West Coast feel.
West Coast Wilderness Trail
Ride a lakeside section through forest and wetland, with an out-and-back distance to suit your day.
Styx Valley
A remote river-valley outing for experienced parties prepared for changing conditions and river crossings.
Images originally published by Renee Cadigan · Westcoast Wanderer · View original post
A little West Coast care
Weather, river levels and track conditions can change quickly. Wear suitable footwear, carry layers, water and food, and check official information before longer outings. Tell someone your plan when heading into the backcountry, and leave every place as beautiful as you found it.