I had just finished a great book by Chris Long who grew up at Gorge River, a secluded place on the West Coast, approx half way between Haast in the North and Milford Sound in the South.

In the book Chris describes life growing up at Gorge river and mentioned that he and his family would occasionally walk out from Gorge river to Cascade road end, a 40km, two (plus) day hike. Not long after finishing the book we had a holiday on the beautiful West Coast of the South island and couldn’t miss the oportunity to visit Cascade road end.

Spectacular scenery, good road, a sunny day – perfect!!

The beautiful blue waters of the Arawata river

The Arawata River looking South

The Arawata River

The Arawata River from the bridge. Via left over the bridge on to the gravel road.

A beautiful drive through the bush

Our truck is dwafed by the huge trees.

The road was well maintained.

Beautiful bush!!

Out into the open and a glimpse of the hills on the other side of the valley.

Memorial plaque erected by the Nolan family.

Looking out over the valley towards Cascade river.

The gate closing the road is next to the Martyr River and as far as we could go. I think it is private property from here.

From Haast head south towards Jackson Bay, when you cross the Arawata river bridge via left onto a gravel road. Follow this road, which for a while runs along the Jackson river, through magestic bush, follows the Martyr River, then over the hills to road end.

See the Jackson Bay post and other West Coast posts.