Attractions at Hell’s Gate National Park

Attractions at Hell’s Gate National Park

Once a prehistoric lake, the Hell’s Gate National Park is now remarkable for its unique landscape and the diverse wildlife that calls this small park home. The landscape is incredible and there are a number of attractions at Hell’s Gate National Park that may make your visit incredible. There are several small waterfalls, both cold and hot, as well as stunning, multi-colored rock strata and formations. You might even recognize some of the locations, they’ve been included in productions such as Tomb Raider: Cradle of Life, and inspired others such as The Lion King. Fischer Tower At 25 meters tall, Fischer Tower is a remnant of the park’s volcanic history. This craggy behemoth was formed when semi-molten rock was forced through a fissure and solidified around 35 million years ago. Accompanied by a guide, visitors can climb the tower and gaze over the surrounding area, a view that has changed little in a very long time. Hell’s Gate Gorge Hell’s Gate gorge snakes through the center of the park, a tributary to an ancient lake that once existed. Visitors can explore the curving walls of the gorge with a guide, and experience the aptly-named sections, the devil’s sitting room, Hell’s clinic, and the devil’s mouth. There are several small waterfalls, both cold and hot, as well as stunning, multi-colored rock strata and formations. You might even recognize some of the locations, they’ve been included in productions such as Tomb Raider: Cradle of Life and inspired others such as The Lion King. The Lower Gorge If you prefer nature to wildlife, the Lower Gorge will with no doubt satisfy your needs. It is a track leading down the fantastic curves of Ol Njorowa Gorge, which can be very slippery when wet. Obsidian caves Another a vestige of volcanic activity is the obsidian caves, located along with the Buffalo Circuit (a 14km track around the eastern part of the park). Entering the cool of the caves, you’ll notice the shiny, black, and dark green surface of obsidian rock. This mesmerizing gleam is the result of molten lava coming into contact with water and cooling rapidly. Wildlife Aside from the spectacular geology, Hell’s Gate is also home to a wide range of wildlife. Despite its relatively small size, the area’s wildlife includes giraffes, lions, leopards, buffalo, Thomson gazelles, and eland antelopes. The high cliffs of the park are also ideal for nesting birds, which total around 103 species. Of particular note is the bearded vulture, a rare yet stunningly beautiful bird. Excellent Nature Trails An excellent hiking trail. It offers a refreshing walk in quiet nature trails where the only interruptions are birds singing and trees whistling. The trails are superb, with great attractions along the way. If you love the winged ones, you will encounter many along the walk