Exploring Lake Chalice in Mount Richmond Forest Park
Lake Chalice, located at 750 metres above sea level in Mount Richmond Forest Park near Blenheim, is an interesting destination for day walks and overnight stays. This quiet lake, the only one in the park, is surrounded by dense beech forest for a remote escape into nature.
The Track to Lake Chalice
The hike to Lake Chalice begins at the Lake Chalice carpark, situated at 1,200 metres along the rugged yet scenic Staircase Road. This carpark is one of the highest accessible by public road in New Zealand. From here, you will hike a steep 500-metre descent, taking approximately one hour, along a sometimes rough and stony track leading to a DOC hut.
The track starts amidst exotic scrub and trees, gradually transitioning into the beech forest. As you descend, you will encounter a couple of charming small waterfalls on streams crossing the path.
Exploring the Lake and Surroundings
Once at the hut, you can explore the expansive gravel beds nearby or take the relatively flat loop track that encircles the lake through the beech forest. Completing the lake loop takes about 2.5 hours.
For those who prefer a more leisurely pace or wish to explore further into the ranges, such as the Goulter and access to Te Araroa, staying overnight in the hut is an excellent option. Be mindful of sandflies and wasps, which may be present.
How to Get to Lake Chalice
To reach Lake Chalice from Blenheim, take Northbank Road from State Highway 6, just north of the Wairau River bridge. Continue west on Northbank Road to Top Valley, then follow gravel Top Valley Road until you reach Staircase Road. This forestry road winds and ascends steeply through a plantation pine forest, leading to the Mount Richmond Forest Park. The drive to the car park takes about 90 minutes.
Although the road is unsealed and primarily used by forestry operators, it is passable for a 2WD vehicle in good weather. However, be cautious, as weather conditions or forestry operations may affect road access. Beyond the lake, Chalice Track car park, you need a 4WD.
Along the way, you cna stop and check out the aptly named Enchanted Lookout.
