10 October 2026
Cloudy with scattered showers developing this afternoon, possibly heavy and thundery with hail, mainly about the foothills.
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1 / 8Peel Forest Park Scenic Reserve
Peel Forest - The Fern Walk
This track passes through virgin podocarp forest and you can see 68 species of fern along the way.
Distance
3.3 km
Walking time
1 hr 30 min
Difficulty
Easy
Dogs
Not allowed
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
Water treatment upgrade at Peel Forest Campground
Weather outlook
Canterbury High Country forecast
Issued 10 Oct 2026, 7:33 am
11 October 2026
About the Divide: Showers, possibly heavy in the morning, clearing in the evening. Elsewhere: mainly fine but the odd afternoon shower.
12 October 2026
Fine.
13 October 2026
Showers developing.
14 October 2026
Rain turning to showers. Snow lowering to 1900 metres.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Peel Forest - The Fern Walk on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Peel Forest - The Fern Walk
Start this track at Te Wanahu Flat. The early part of the track passes through Mills Bush, 16.2 hectares of virgin podocarp forest containing giant lowland tōtara, mataī and kahikatea trees, many of them probably 1000 years old. Their roots are spread across the path. Ferns abound along the walk – most of the 68 species of ferns in Peel Forest can be seen along the way. It's 3.3 km from end to end, taking 90 minutes one way, so allow up to 3 hours for an easy-paced return walk.
Essential information for Peel Forest - The Fern Walk
Cellphone coverage in the Peel Forest area is poor. Consider bringing an emergency communications device.
Huts and campsites
Peel Forest Campground has campsites and cabins. Bookings are required . The campground is closed from May to mid-October each year, however. During this period Clarke Flat is opened as a standard campsite.
Getting there for Peel Forest - The Fern Walk
9.5 km north of Geraldine, turn off SH72 (Inland Scenic Route) into Peel Forest Road, which becomes Rangitata Gorge Road. Clarke Flat and Te Wanahu Flat are 600 m apart on Rangitata Gorge Road, approx. 14 km from SH72. Use this location in Google Maps to find your way there.
Helpful resources
We encourage you to continue gaining the skills and knowledge required for a safe trip. The NZ Mountain Safety Council has lots of free resources and information you can use. These can be accessed via www.mountainsafety.org.nz . Level up in your outdoor knowledge with these interactive online learning tools: Trip Planning Tramping / field Skills Basic Navigation River Safety Additionally, check out the range of helpful videos available from the NZ Mountain Safety Council YouTube channel .
Dog access for Peel Forest - The Fern Walk
Dogs allowed. Keep dog under control at all times.
Before you walk Peel Forest - The Fern Walk
Track information, access and weather can change. Confirm current alerts and land-manager information close to departure, tell someone your plans, and carry equipment appropriate for the route and conditions.