Chalice–Goulter Track
Located in Mount Richmond Forest Park in the Marlborough region
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Introduction
Follow the Goulter River from Lake Chalice.Seasonal restrictions
Forestry operations in the area can close roads into Mount Richmond Forest Park. Check the status of roads into Mount Richmond Forest Park.
Dog access
Staircase Road to Lake Chalice Hut
Time: 1 hr
Distance: 2.6 km
Lake Chalice Hut to Lake Chalice (western end)
Time: 1 hr
Distance: 2.6 km
Lake Chalice (western end) to Mid-Goulter Hut
Time: 4 hr
Distance: 6.7 km
From the western end of Lake Chalice, the track descends past where the Goulter River begins at a group of springs. Once into the valley proper, the track follows the true left of the river all the way down to Mid-Goulter Hut.
Mid-Goulter Hut to Lower Goulter Hut
Time: 3 hr
Distance: 8 km
The Goulter valley widens below Mid-Goulter Hut into one of the few areas in the forest park with extensive river flats. If the river is high take the all weather track which follows the true left bank, crossing a number of side streams before finally climbing over a bluffy outcrop and dropping to the hut. If the river is low, travel in the riverbed is possible.
Lower Goulter Hut to 4WD road end
Time: 45 min
Distance: 2 km
Lower Goulter Hut to 2WD road end
Time: 2 hr 45 min
Distance: 12 km
The 4WD road end connects with a 2WD road end at Tiphead Stream.
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.
Make sure you have enough experience for your trip. Always fill in hut books and ensure someone knows your intentions.
Hazards
- Water in the park may not be safe to drink. If you doubt the safety of any water source, you should boil, filter or chemically treat it.
- Bad weather can occur at any time - be prepared with warm, waterproof clothing and extra food.
- Wasps are common from December until April. Carry antihistamine if you are allergic to their stings.
Rivers and streams
In normal flows unbridged streams and rivers can be crossed. However, in flood they can become impassable and you will need to be prepared to wait until flood waters recede.
Stay safe when crossing rivers
If you plan to cross unbridged rivers, know how to cross safely and be prepared for if you cannot cross.
Do not cross if the river is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop. If in doubt, stay out.
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. Share directly or use the Outdoor Intentions form or Plan My Walk. Take a distress beacon.
- Take care of yourself and each other.
Contacts
| Whakatū/Nelson Visitor Centre | |
|---|---|
| Phone | +64 3 546 9339 |
| nelsonvc@doc.govt.nz | |
| Address | Millers Acre/Taha o te Awa 1/37 Halifax Street Nelson 7010 |
| Hours | Visitor centre hours and services |