Exploring the Staircase Road
The Staircase Road is a dramatic ascent into Mount Richmond Forest Park, providing one of the most rugged yet accessible backroad experiences in the upper South Island. Located about a 30-minute drive southwest of Blenheim, this remote forestry road begins at Top Valley Road and climbs to over 1,200 metres above sea level. The elevation is similar to that of ski field car parks, and the road's 20 steep, twisting kilometres provide breathtaking views.
Navigating the Staircase Road
Although Staircase Road is primarily a gravel and clay track built for forestry access, it is usually passable in a 2WD vehicle during dry conditions. However, it can become slippery after rain. The high ridgeline section features steep drops without barriers; exercise caution. Always check conditions beforehand and be ready to turn back if necessary. Beyond the Lake Chalice Track car park, the road deteriorates, and a 4WD is required. The road can be closed without warning during logging operations.
Spectacular Views and Tramping Opportunities
The journey up Staircase Road gives access to some of the region's most stunning remote locations. Near the summit ridge, the Enchanted Lookout is a fabulous view across the Wairau Valley below. The road continues to a car park at the start of the Lake Chalice Track, which takes two to four hours to complete. For those seeking more challenging adventures, multi-day tracks such as the Goulter Track and the Mt. Patriarch Route extend deeper into the park.
How to Get There
To reach Staircase Road, take Northbank Road from State Highway 6, just north of the Wairau River bridge. Continue west on Northbank Road to Top Valley, then follow Top Valley Road until you arrive at Staircase Road. From here, you can embark on your journey into the scenic and rugged terrain of Mount Richmond Forest Park. Allow an hour to get to the start of the road from Blenheim and 30 minutes to get to the Lake Chalice Track.
