Devils Punchbowl Falls

Plunging 131 metres down a sheer granite face in the heart of the Haast River valley, Devils Punchbowl Falls is one of the West Coast's most dramatic and accessible waterfalls. The short but steep walk to the lookout rewards you with a powerful spray and the thundering roar of water cascading into a deep, dark pool. Surrounded by dense temperate rainforest, the trail is a sensory feast of moss, ferns, and birdlife.

Highlights & What to See

• The falls themselves – a spectacular single-drop waterfall that is especially impressive after rain (which is frequent here).
• The short bushwalk – a 20-minute climb (600 metres) through lush native forest, with interpretive signs about local flora and geology.
• Viewing platform – get up close to the mist and feel the power of the falls; bring a raincoat or poncho.
• Birdwatching – keep an eye out for fantails, tomtits, and the occasional kea.
• Nearby Haast River – the walk starts near the Haast River bridge, with scenic views of the braided river and surrounding peaks.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow 30–45 minutes for the return walk and time to enjoy the falls. It's a quick stop, ideal as a leg-stretcher on the drive between Haast and the glaciers. Go early in the morning to avoid crowds and catch the best light.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Haast Township – 15 minutes south; a small service town with a café, pub, and the Haast Visitor Centre (great for weather updates).
• Thunder Creek Falls – another easy-access waterfall, 10 minutes north along the same highway.
• Fantail Falls – a short walk to a fan-shaped cascade, also nearby.
• Haast Pass – the scenic mountain pass connecting the West Coast to Wanaka and Central Otago.
• Jackson Bay – a quiet fishing village with a historic wharf and a café known for whitebait fritters, about 30 minutes south.

Please check official sources for current details.