2.6 km to hut | 6.5 km loop from hut
Forestry operations in the area can close roads into Mount Richmond Forest Park. Check the status of roads into Mount Richmond Forest Park.
Lake Chalice Track
Time: 1 hr
Distance: 2.6 km
From the car park a benched tramping track leads down to Lake Chalice Hut near the eastern end of the lake. Allow a little more time for the return journey.
Chalice Loop Track
Time: 2 hr 30 min return
Distance: 6.5 km
Clockwise from Lake Chalice Hut the track follows the southern shore of the lake for approximately an hour to a sign posted junction. Here it turns right and crosses the old landslide to the northern side of the lake and then skirts around some bluffy areas before sidling to the eastern end of the lake, where two tributaries enter close together. If the lake level is low walk around the shore to Lake Chalice Hut. If not, stay on the track, crossing the tributaries and emerging opposite Lake Chalice Hut.
5 km north Renwick (just over the Wairau River bridge) turn off SH6 onto Northbank Road. Follow this for 33 km then turn into Top Valley Road. Continue for 6 km then turn into Staircase Road and follow this for 18 km to the car park.
Goulter Road is open to walkers and bikers only
This road is not suitable for vehicles.
Vehicles can park either before Patriarch Station at the start of the public easement, or approximately 2 km further along Goulter Road just prior to crossing Patriarch Stream.
It is 6 km from Patriarch Station or 4 km from the Patriarch Stream to the Mount Richmond Forest Park boundary. There is a locked gate just past Patriarch Stream.
Safety: Bad weather can occur at any time, so be prepared with warm and waterproof clothing and extra food. Make sure you have enough experience for your trip. Always fill in hut books and ensure someone knows your intentions.
Wasps are a known hazard and are particularly common from December until April. Carry antihistamine if you are allergic to their stings.
Drinking water: The purity of drinking water in Mount Richmond Forest Park can't be guaranteed. If you doubt the quality of any water source you should boil, filter or chemically treat it.
Stay safe in the outdoors
- Choose the right trip for you. Learn about the route and make sure you have the skills for it.
- Understand the weather. Check weather forecasts.
- Pack warm clothes and extra food. Check gear lists.
- Share your plans and take ways to get help. Leave your intentions with a trusted contact and take a distress beacon.
- Take care of yourself and each other.
Whakatū/Nelson Visitor Centre
Phone: | +64 3 546 9339 |
Email: | nelsonvc@doc.govt.nz |
Address: | Millers Acre/Taha o te Awa 1/37 Halifax Street Nelson 7010 |
Hours: | Visitor centre hours and services |