Karangahake Gorge
Karangahake
A gold-era mining gorge with a suspension bridge, the 'Windows Walk' cut into the cliff face and a 1-km railway tunnel, the highlight of the Hauraki Rail Trail.
The gorge lies at the southern tip of the peninsula, and in the late 19th century it was the center of gold mining here. The classic Windows Walk takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, passing through mine tunnels cut into the cliff, with 'windows' that look down over the river valley (bring a headlamp). Another loop route passes through a roughly 1-km-long disused railway tunnel. The Hauraki Rail Trail cycle path runs through the gorge, and you can rent bikes to ride to Waikino and the Victoria Battery ruins. Entry is free, and the car park is beside State Highway 2.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Martha Mine, Waihi
- Wentworth Falls
- Whangamatā
- Thames School of Mines
- Pinnacles Walk (Kauaeranga Valley)
- Tairua & Mount Paku
- Square Kauri
- Hot Water Beach