Sunday 3 December 2023 8am
Members please register for this tramp by Friday 1 December 7pm.
The Karangahake Gorge will need no introduction for most members, it is one of our favourite regular tramps. The gorge lies next to SH2 between Paeroa and Waihi and combines spectacular natural beauty with interesting historical remains of the area’s gold-mining past, including long tunnels (some of which we traverse).
Departure: 8 am sharp from the Strand
Equipment: in addition to the normal equipment for a day walk, bring a head-torch (for the tunnels, which are not illuminated) and swimming costume and towel.
Cost: members $25, non-members $30
Organiser: Chris Bilham, 022-6573837
Driver: Arletta van den Bosch
Non members please contact the organiser to discuss your suitability for this tramp.
Short Route
From Talisman carpark, cross the Ohinemuri suspension bridge. Immediately at the end of the bridge turn right and follow a rough, unmarked track towards the Crown Battery. On reaching the road, turn right, cross the footbridge over the road and walk through the long railway tunnel. On leaving the tunnel, turn left and follow the Karangahake Gorge Historic Walkway westwards. Make a short diversion to Owharoa Falls (good spot for lunch and a swim), then return to the walkway and continue to Waikino Station, where you will be picked up.
Medium Route
From the Talisman carpark, cross the Ohinemuri suspension bridge, turn left and cross the Lower Waitawheta Gorge Bridge and follow the Karangahake Gorge Historic Walkway to the west. After about 1 kilometer turn left to cross the Eastern Portal Bridge and walk through the old railway tunnel. Cross the Western Portal Bridge and turn left, back towards the Talisman carpark. Walk up Scotsmans Gully Track and follow Number 7 Level Track, Dubbo 96 Track; cross a footbridge and return via Crown Track (also known as Waitawheta Pipeline Walk). This will bring you back to the start.
Distance Route
From the Talisman carpark, cross the Ohinemuri suspension bridge and follow the Crown Track to the south. Cross the Waitawheta Bridge and follow the Crown Track along the Waitawheta River to Dickey Flat campsite. Continue along Dickey Flat Track to touch the road, then turn south along the North South Track. Turn right (ie to the west) onto the Mangakino Pack Track, then Karangahake Mountain Track. Take the side track to Karangahake peak (544m), return the same way and via Scotsman’s Gully back to the carpark.
Maps:
