Canyon Creek

29-30 January 2022

Canyon Creek, Ahuriri Conservation Area

Third time lucky for leading this trip as two previously programmed attempts were cancelled due to poor weather forecasts.

Four members decided to travel up to Twizel on the Friday night for a bit of socialising prior to commencing the tramp on the Saturday. We met the fifth member in Omarama about 8.30am. Travelling in two cars we began the long journey up Birchwood Road, this road is not maintained over the later 2/3rds of the road and we were thankful for having high clearance vehicles as the road was washed out in places and previous vehicles had created rough tracks around these washouts, a slow and bumpy journey indeed.

We were very lucky with the weather as it was a glorious day and we had plenty of time to reach our destination, which allowed us to stop frequently to soak in the views.

A walk along the flats was required before crossing Canyon Creek which was no more than ankle deep. This is followed by a short sharp climb over the bluff that creates the first Canyon, certainly gets you warmed up that climb.

Following the track along the valley we encountered a few treefall areas and track missing due to washout but these are easily navigated by walking along the river bed until the track is sighted again.

Lunch was taken at the base of the cirque in the lower valley before commencing the climb into the upper valley. The views in this area are simply outstanding with mountain peaks and waterfalls aplenty.

Once at the top we navigated by following the cairns along the valley, multiple routes have been laid out with cairns so choices aplenty.

We reached the rock Bivouac in early afternoon and proceeded to set up camp. Some members exploring further up towards the end of the valley and some members making the most of their photographic skills.

Following a blustery night, we had a later start to descend down the valley on what was again a nice day.

At the crossing of Canyon Creek at the start of the valley (carpark end) we came across a horse trekking Company taking Clients out on a trip, this group followed one of our members out to the carpark, interesting to note that the tramper was first back settling the debate that shanks pony is faster than a real pony at least whilst walking.

A long slow trip back out Birchwood Road ensued with a stop for refreshments in Omarama before proceeding home.