Dawson Falls easy tramping tracks
Great Walk/Easy tramping track
Getting there
Dawson Falls sits at the top end of Mania Road 14 km from Kaponga. The drive to the roadend is through scenic native forest. Kaponga is an easy drive west of Stratford and Eltham.
About the area
Explore the Dawson Falls area of Egmont National Park which features one of New Zealand's oldest operational power generators.
Located on the south eastern slopes of Mt Taranaki, in Egmont National Park.
Description
Hasties Hill Track
Time: 1 hr - 1 hr 30 min return
This is a very scenic tramp that rises to the summit of Hasties Hill. On a clear day great views can be had of the Beehives and back to Dawson Falls Roadend.
The track enters the bush to the left just above the Dawson Falls Visitor Centre. Turn left again at the first track junction. About five minutes along the track takes a sharp right turn and descends to cross a tributary of the Kaupokonui Stream before ascending steeply.
Continue on to the top of the hill where two viewing corridors provide great views across to the Beehives and back to Konini Lodge. This is a good spot for a picnic.
Return down the track to the visitor centre.
Be aware there are no safety barriers along the cliff tops on this track.
Plan and prepare
What to expect on a Great Walk/Easy tramping track:
- Moderate day or multi-day tramping/hiking
- Track is generally well formed, may be steep, rough or muddy
- Suitable for people with moderate fitness. Limited backcountry (remote areas) experience required
- Track has signs, poles or markers. Major stream and rivers crossings are bridged
- Light tramping/hiking boots required