One of the most committing, sustained and narrow canyons in NZ. 44 pitches, super solid dark schist, deep, narrow, sustained. Don’t forget the “Slot of Doom”, with a handline to access 3 pitches (one including a deviation) on a 45m drop. If it had jumps it might be a 5 star canyon…
Tag: Dart Valley
Rockburn v4a7III*
10m (30m rope)
8hrs
Public access
Main river gorge, with extremely high water levels and numerous huge syphons. Only in condition at the end of a long dry summer.
Thigh Burn v4a2III*
60m
Whole day
Public access
Long, steep scrubby approach to a steep, low flow stream with an enclosed section at the end.
Major Mayhem Canyon v5a3IV***
95m (60+35 pitches)
5-14hrs
Public access
Big, exposed waterfalls in the upper section, with a relentless narrow slot canyon below. Lots of delicate logjams!
Eagle’s Nest v4a3V***
Highest drop 35m (2x 60m ropes needed, due lack of anchors in one place, requiring a 50m rappel. ) Public access 14hrs A stunning, steep and slotted canyon. It starts high up Mt Earnslaw and continues without pause all the way down to the valley. 700m of descent and over 40 rappels. A real classic,…