Chiller Chasm

On a recent impromptu trip to the West Coast, my wife and I stopped to photograph the chasm at Wilson's Creek.

The wonderous waterfall within the Wilson's Creek Chasm catches the light in an ethereal way, above the chilly waters.

For the best alignment of the shot, I needed to stand in the middle of the chilly stream for around 15 minutes.

Please note that this is not an official signposted attraction, it's off the beaten track a little but popular on social media and amongst the photography community.

You access the chasm at the side of the Wilson's Creek Bridge, two kilometres South of the Fantail Falls in the Haast Pass. This photo below shows the view into the chasm from the bridge.

There is a path at the left side that goes some of the way in, then you need to scramble over the rocks and down into the stream.

Be prepared to cross sections of the stream to wade into the chasm. If you pick your path carefully you can stay in water between ankle and knee depth.

Be aware there are deeper sections and you shouldn't visit after heavy rain.

Consider taking a walking pole for additional balance if you wish

Wear old shoes you don't mind getting wet but that have some grip. Roll up your pants to the knees.

For a greater sense of the area, here is a short video from my wife's phone taken while standing in the creek. First looking back towards the bridge/road, then the short section of creek we navigated to get into the chasm.

Planning tips:

If you are thinking of heading up the Wilson's Creek Chasm, consider the following tips:

1. Safety first:

   1. Check the forecast before you go. While the chasm is only a short distance from the road, don't visit the creek after heavy rain as the creek depths will be higher and the current swifter.

   2. Be sure to tell someone where you are and what you are doing.

   3. It's a good idea to go with a friend. The area is remote and cellphone coverage can be spotty.

2. Clothing:

   Dress for the conditions.

   1. Wear old shoes with some grip, that you don't mind getting wet. The rocks can be slippery and sharp as you climb over them and wade through the stream.

   2. Be prepared for the water to be very cold. You may be wading through sections up to your knees. The cold is bracing but the distances are relatively short. It's ok to say "Holy......" at the freezing temperatures.

   3. Keep a towel, dry socks and shoes in your car to dry off and change into.

   4. Have a full change of clothes in the car in case you fall in the stream and get soaked.

      
      

3. Equipment:

   1. Pack your photography gear and tripod so you can use both hands to steady yourself as you climb along the rocks and down into the stream.

   2. Consider using a walking pole to steady yourself if you think you will need it.

   3. Leave everything else in the car, you are close to the road so no need to take excess baggage.

      
      

4. Warming up:

   1. Have some warm drinks and a snack in your car to consume after you have changed your footwear.

   2. You may have extra warm water to pour over your feet especially if you have spent time standing in the chilly water.

   3. Walk around a bit after you change to get your blood circulating, especially if your feet are a bit numb from standing in cold water. The Fantail Falls are only a 2km drive down the road and there is a short walking track to get you moving.