Allow around three hours all up – roughly half of that is genuine walking, and the rest is exploring, photo stops and your picnic at Wave Rock. You’ll cross farm track and native bush before dropping down to the riverbed, where the stones are uneven and slippery in places and there are a couple of steeper, assisted sections. A moderate level of fitness and reasonable footing is all you need – it’s an adventure, not a boardwalk stroll.
Yes – properly. The chasm section is walked in the river itself, usually somewhere between knee and waist deep, and deeper in places after rain. Come dressed for it and you’ll love it; fight it and you’ll be miserable. Fair warning given.
Sturdy shoes that can get soaked and stay on your feet – sneakers are perfect, jandals are not. Quick-dry clothes, a warm layer, and a hat and sunblock for the open farm sections. Bring water, a picnic to have at Wave Rock, and your camera or phone in a bag you can hold above your head for the deeper bits. A dry change of clothes waiting in the car is a very good idea.
Families walk the chasm all the time and kids tend to rate it the best day of the holiday. They should be confident walkers who are comfortable in and around water, and you’ll want to keep them close through the river section – in places the water can be over a small child’s head, though there’s usually a shallower line to pick. You know your crew best.
No – Patuna is a working sheep and beef farm, so dogs need to sit this one out at home.
Yes – bookings are essential and the walk regularly sells out on good days. Book online through our booking page and you’ll get everything you need to know by email, including your check-in time. Please arrive 15 minutes early for the trailer ride to the start of the track.
The walking season opens Labour Weekend and runs through until late March, weather and river levels permitting. Bookings for the new season open in early September.
River levels rule the walk – it’s what makes the chasm special and what closes it after heavy rain. If we have to cancel your walk, we’ll be in touch to rebook you or refund you in full. It also pays to check our Facebook page the day before you walk.
You can cancel or rebook up to 14 days before your walk for a full refund. Cancel within 7 days of your walk and we can refund 50%; inside 7 days we’re unable to refund, as your spot has been held. If we cancel because of river levels or weather, you’re always refunded or rebooked in full.