Directions

The network of Fenian tracks are all accessed via the Fenian carpark on Fenian Road. From Market Cross where the Karamea Information Centre is, turn right on to Oparara Road and take that until you reach the Oparara Rd/Fenian Road junction. Take Fenian Road and park in the carpark. Distance approximately 4 kilometres from Karamea.

The Fenian Walking Tracks

Go for gold – and a must for fungi fanatics!

Early goldminers began working the Fenian area back in the 1860’s – as usual, they cut a bridle track to get in and out of their claims.  You have them to thank (and a whole bunch of hardworking local Karameans) for the network of  easy-access, easy-grade walking tracks into this area, through mixed beech/podocarp forest.   This area is known for its amazing variety of fungi.  Choose your walk to suit the time you have and your interests.  Se below for details.
PS  Some of these tracks link up with the Oparara Basin and tracks.

Fenian carpark to Sunshine Flat (3hr 30min one way) 9.5km Walk partway up the Fenian Track, branching off at the Junction to head up the Valley Track as far as Sunshine Flat shelter.

Sunshine Flat to Oparara Carpark (1hr 30min one way) 4.5km After a breather at Sunshine Flat, where you will be able to read up on the amazing story of how the track was constructed, continue along the Valley Track to come out at the Oparara Carpark via Moria Gate Arch.

Oparara Valley Track (5hrs) 14km A stunning new full day walk through ancient rainforest, up the Oparara River, and coming out at the Oparara Carpark. This walk and the above two require a reasonable level of fitness, as there are a few challenging switchbacks on the Valley Track.

Maloneys Bluff (40min one way) 3.5km At 30 metres above the river, the hard granite outcrop known as Maloneys Bluff is an excellent viewpoint to look northwards up the Oparara Valley

Fenian/Valley Tracks Junction (1 hr 15min one way) 4km Another 15 minutes along the Valley Track from the Junction will bring you out at Postal River

Fenian Caves Loop (1 hr 1.5km or 3hrs return from carpark, 5 kms) The Fenian Caves consist of three “open access” caves. A torch or headlight, and sturdy footwear, is essential. A helmet is recommended. Two of the caves are located beside the track, Miners Cave and Cavern Creek Cave. The loop track passes through Tunnel Cave, which is rough underfoot for some 80m. A reasonable level of fitness is required. Track best walked in a clockwise direction.

Fenian Gold Workings (1 hour 35 minutes one way) 5km A track has been cut up the Fenian Creek to the site of the Fenian Goldworkings

Adams Flat (2 hours one way) 7km An easy walk up the old heritage bridle track to the clearing now known as Adams Flat. Named after John Adams, an early settler/goldminer, who died and was buried at the goldworkings in 1882.

Adams Creek Water Race (2 hours 40minutes one way) 8km.  Continue up past Adams Flat on a cut track to the Adams Creek goldworkings and dam site.