Where the River Glows: Hiking the Rakaia Gorge Walkway

If you’re into epic landscapes and don’t mind a bit of a workout, the Rakaia Gorge Walkway is definitely worth checking out. The view of the Rakaia River is just wow—those turquoise waters winding through the gorge are seriously stunning. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to stop every few minutes just to take it all in (and snap a photo or two). That said, this track isn’t exactly a walk in the park. It’s steep in quite a few spots, and I wouldn’t recommend it for young kids or anyone who isn’t used to hiking. The path can be a bit tough, and there’s not much in the way of signs to guide you. Even finding where to start the trail was a bit confusing—you have to walk about 200 meters from the car park, cross the road, then go uphill. Took me a minute to figure it out! Also, if you’re someone who enjoys learning about the area as you go, you might be a little disappointed. There are no signs or info boards along the trail, so you won’t get much background on the place’s history or nature. Overall, it’s a beautiful and rewarding hike, but definitely more suited for confident walkers or those looking for a bit of a challenge. Just don’t expect an easy, family-friendly experience. Tip: Wear good shoes, bring lots of water and sunscreen, and maybe download a map or GPS app before you go—it’ll save you some guesswork!#travel #familytravel #hiking