Rainbow Reach Swing Bridge
Cross the iconic swing bridge over the emerald Waiau River, a stunning gateway to the Kepler Track in Fiordland National Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer people, better photos
Rainbow Reach Swing Bridge
Best Time
Fewer people, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Cross the iconic swing bridge over the emerald Waiau River, a stunning gateway to the Kepler Track in Fiordland National Park.
"The greenest river! So beautiful. One hundred percent recommend a little excursion there."
Embrace the Swing!
Walking across the suspension bridge can be a bit wobbly, but it's part of the adventure! :athletic_shoe:
Pack for Hiking
Even for a short visit, wear comfortable shoes. The Kepler Track offers varied terrain. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rainbow Reach Swing Bridge
Waiau River
An iconic suspension bridge offering thrilling river crossings and stunning views of the emerald Waiau River.
Waiau River Views
Along the bridge and Kepler Track
Marvel at the incredibly green, clear waters of the Waiau River, often described as the 'most beautiful river' in New Zealand.
Kepler Track Trailhead
Adjacent to the bridge
Start or end your Kepler Track adventure here, or enjoy a scenic day hike through diverse beech forests.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Kepler Track Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Embrace the Swing!
Walking across the suspension bridge can be a bit wobbly, but it's part of the adventure! :athletic_shoe:
Pack for Hiking
Even for a short visit, wear comfortable shoes. The Kepler Track offers varied terrain. :athletic_shoe:
Itinerary December-January
River's Emerald Hue
The Waiau River's unique green color is a must-see, even if you're not hiking. :sparkles:
Toilet Facilities
There's a basic toilet near the carpark, but it's noted as not the nicest. Plan accordingly! :toilet:
Another US Tourist Itinerary to Roast!
Tips
from all over the internet
Embrace the Swing!
Walking across the suspension bridge can be a bit wobbly, but it's part of the adventure! :athletic_shoe:
Pack for Hiking
Even for a short visit, wear comfortable shoes. The Kepler Track offers varied terrain. :athletic_shoe:
River's Emerald Hue
The Waiau River's unique green color is a must-see, even if you're not hiking. :sparkles:
Toilet Facilities
There's a basic toilet near the carpark, but it's noted as not the nicest. Plan accordingly! :toilet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning, vibrant green Waiau River and the thrilling experience of crossing the iconic suspension bridge. It's a highly recommended stop for its natural beauty and as a gateway to the Kepler Track, though some note the basic toilet facilities.
"A beautiful suspended bridge above a river, located between lake Manapouri and Te Anau. It is also one of the beginning points of the Kepler track.
We went from here to the Te Anau stop, which was approximately 10km one way. Altogether, the hike took about 6-7 hours with that checkpoint.
Despite the length, the terrain is moderately difficult and very well shaded, with a variety of different forest types, which gives this part of the hike a lot of scenic variety."
German Kolesnikov
"Very cool suspension bridge! A bit scary walking across, but all adds to the adventures. :) We booked a bus from here back to Te Anau at the end of our Kepler Track trek as we wanted to cut some mileage off and have more time and energy to explore Te Anau. I'm really glad we made this decision!
At the road, you'll find a toilet (the least nice toilet on the whole track haha), a couple picnic tables, and some signage of what to expect on the Kepler Track."
Leilani Osmundson
"This is one of the ending points for the Kepler track, or a starting point for a number of day hikes. We did the hike to the Shallow Bay hut, as we had completed the Kepler a few years back. This hike starts by crossing an impressive swing bridge over the Waiau river through beech forest to the hut. A beautiful day hike out & back"
Diana Waines
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Rainbow Reach is located on State Highway 95, between Lake Manapouri and Te Anau. It's easily accessible by car. If you're coming from Te Anau, it's about a 20-30 minute drive. Many shuttle services also operate to this point for Kepler Track hikers.
Yes, there is a carpark available at Rainbow Reach, which is convenient for day visitors and hikers starting or ending their Kepler Track journey.
Absolutely! You can walk across the swing bridge and enjoy the views of the Waiau River without committing to the full Kepler Track. There are also shorter day hike options.
From Queenstown, you'll typically drive towards Te Anau (approx. 2-hour drive) and then continue on SH95 towards Manapouri and Rainbow Reach. Renting a car offers the most flexibility.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to visit Rainbow Reach and walk across the swing bridge. It's a public access point.
Rainbow Reach is accessible at all times as it's an outdoor location. However, daylight hours are best for enjoying the scenery and for safety.
For most day hikes originating from Rainbow Reach, no advance booking is required. However, if you plan to stay overnight in a DOC hut on the Kepler Track, booking is essential.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can walk across the iconic swing bridge, admire the vibrant green Waiau River, and start or end sections of the Kepler Track. It's a great spot for photos and a picnic.
Some visitors find the swing bridge a bit wobbly and thrilling, but it's generally considered safe. It adds to the adventure!
While not guaranteed, you might spot native New Zealand birds in the surrounding beech forests. Keep an eye out for tūī, bellbirds, and fantails.
Yes, there are picnic tables available near the carpark, making it a pleasant spot for a packed lunch amidst nature.
The Kepler Track from Rainbow Reach offers a beautiful walk through diverse beech forests, with sections along the Waiau River. It's moderately challenging with well-maintained paths.
📸 📸 Photography
The swing bridge itself is a prime photo opportunity. Also, capture the stunning emerald green of the Waiau River from various angles along the bridge and the start of the track.
Mornings often offer softer light and fewer people, making it ideal for photography. However, the river's color is striking throughout the day.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's always best to check with local authorities (like DOC) before flying a drone in national park areas to ensure compliance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Emphasize the unique color of the Waiau River to spark curiosity. It's a fantastic opportunity to teach children about local geography and the importance of preserving natural beauty. While the bridge can be a bit wobbly, it's generally safe and supervised crossings can add to the fun.
🚶 Hikers and Trampers
Day hikers can enjoy segments of the Kepler Track, such as the route to Shallow Bay Hut. The trails are well-marked and offer a good introduction to the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Remember to carry sufficient water, snacks, and appropriate gear, as conditions can change. The swing bridge itself is an iconic part of the Kepler Track experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Swing Bridge Experience
For those embarking on the Kepler Track, this bridge marks a significant point, either as a starting or ending point. Even if you're not undertaking the full multi-day trek, a walk across the bridge and a short distance onto the track offers a fantastic taste of the Fiordland National Park's beauty. The surrounding beech forests provide a lush, green backdrop, and the sound of the river is ever-present.
It's worth noting that while the bridge is a highlight, the facilities are basic. A single outdoor toilet is available near the carpark, which some reviewers have described as less than ideal. However, the natural beauty and the unique experience of crossing the bridge far outweigh these minor inconveniences for most visitors.
Exploring the Waiau River and Kepler Track
Rainbow Reach serves as a crucial access point for the Kepler Track, one of New Zealand's Great Walks. Hikers can choose to start their journey here, heading towards Luxmore Hut, or use it as an endpoint. Day hikers can explore sections of the track, such as the well-maintained path to Shallow Bay Hut, which offers a rewarding out-and-back hike through diverse forest types. The terrain is generally moderate, making it accessible for many fitness levels.
Beyond the Kepler Track, the area around Rainbow Reach is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. The combination of the dramatic swing bridge, the vibrant river, and the tranquil forest setting makes it a memorable stop, even for those just passing through on the scenic drive between Te Anau and Manapouri.
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