Wilson Creek Canyon | Deep Canyon

From NZD $690.00
  • Duration: 9 Hours (approx.)
  • Location: Wanaka, Otago
  • Product code: WC
Our longest and most committing adventure yet. Total ‘deepness’ for several hours in the heart of the wilderness. Less about sliding or jumping, more about adventuring… Previous experience would be helpful. Excellent fitness and a positive attitude are good too! Did we say no-one else guides trips like this..?


It is a scenic 1 hour 15 minute drive from Wanaka towards the west coast. The drive takes in views of Lake Wanaka, Makarora and ends just north of Haast Pass in Mt Aspiring National Park.

The trip begins with a challenging, steep hike through incredibly green New Zealand rainforest, with amazing Beech trees and sphagnum moss. For most of the way there is no track, and a high level of fitness is required. It normally takes 1.5 to 2 hours.

Wilson Creek is one of the longest continuous canyons in the area. It’s a very committing adventure and magnificently scenic.

• Up to 9 Abseils (rappels) to 17m (55’) high,

• Around 5 optional Jumps from 2-10 meters (6-30’)

• Lots of challenging scrambling through the water flow. Excellent balance, confidence and agility is required.

• Lots of swimming, sometimes in turbulent water.

Wilson Creek is one of the most spectacular canyons in the country. For almost 1.5km, the canyon walls are unbroken, and up to 50m deep. At times, you can touch both walls, and other times you can barely see the sky. Watch light beams dance through the slot, be mesmerised by the deep blue pools and the incredible rock formations. It is also a very committing and strenuous adventure.

After the access hike of up to 2 hours, you’re usually in the canyon for 4-5 hours. You’ll need a high level of fitness, good agility, balance and confidence in the water. You’ll need good swimming ability and a reasonable head for heights.