Sharplin Falls, Mid Canterbury

This popular walking track is finally back up and running after being closed as a result of the Christchurch earthquakes.

The team from the Mt Somers Walkway Society along with many tradespeople and volunteers have done an amazing job of creating a new track to these gorgeous falls.

Just in from Staveley is the Sharplin Falls car park, with ample parking, a shelter and toilets there are many options for day, and overnight hikes.

From the car follow the track for a couple of meters to get to the track junction, take the left track and head for Sharplin Falls.

The return journey take approximately 1 hour and is a there and back trail.

It is well graded and suitable for the majority of fitness levels and ages. After 10 minutes you will reach another junction, carry on straight ahead as the left trail will take you on a steep climb along the South Face and up to the summit of Mt Somers.

As you continue along the trail you will encounter numerous micro ups and downs, which are made pleasurable by zig zags rather than straight ups and downs.

There are two large bridges to cross, after the first one there is easy access to the river below which would make for an ideal picnic location or swimming spot in summer.

Further along, a set of stairs lead to the second bridge ending at a house sized boulder, the track has been built around this, and then climbs a final set of stairs to the viewing platform above.

The views of the falls are impressive as they cascade down the boulders, and the river passes by. There is a well placed seat in the centre of the platform encouraging longer stays and a greater appreciation of your surrounds.

Overall, the new track to Sharplin Falls is a great day hike in Mid Canterbury. As the trail is completely in the bush it is rarely affected by adverse weather, and the trail itself is well graded with a good base to it making it suitable for most fitness levels and ages.