10 October 2026
A few showers, clearing in the morning, but cloud remaining about northern faces. Rain developing at night, possibly heavy.
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1 / 3Dawson Falls area
Ridge Loop Track
This track meanders uphill through subalpine forest, crossing the Kapuni Stream before looping and returning to the visitor centre.
Distance
1.9 km
Walking time
1hr 20 min
Difficulty
Easy
Dogs
Not allowed
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
Outdoor alert
Outdoor alert
Weather outlook
Mount Egmont National Park forecast
Issued 10 Oct 2026, 7:33 am
11 October 2026
Rain easing to a few showers in the morning. Snow to 2100 metres until evening.
12 October 2026
A few showers.
13 October 2026
A few showers.
14 October 2026
Rain, with heavy falls. Snow lowering to 2400 metres.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Ridge Loop Track on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Ridge Loop Track
Follow the Wilkies Pools Loop Track then turn right at the first junction to cross Kapuni Stream. Turn right again at the next junction and walk up a short steep track to join the Ridge Track. Head down the ridge and over a bridge to reach Manaia Road just below the visitor centre. Take care when crossing the Kapuni Stream as the river bank may be eroded, making access difficult. There is no bridge across this stream. It may be impassable after heavy rain.
Getting there for Ridge Loop Track
The track starts at the Dawson Falls Visitor Centre. To get there starting from Stratford, turn off SH23 into Celia Street, which becomes Opunake Road. Follow this for 14 km, then turn right into Manaia Road. Continue on this road for 9 km up the mountain to Dawson Falls Visitor Centre. 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 Ridge Loop Track
No dogs.
Before you walk Ridge Loop Track
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.