Ridge Loop Track

Loop

Highlights & Must-See Features

The Goblin Forest is the undisputed highlight. The way the light filters through the canopy, illuminating the hanging lichens and thick carpets of moss, is nothing short of ethereal. It’s a photographer’s dream, especially on misty days when the fog rolls in and the forest truly earns its "whimsical" reputation.

Keep an eye out for the giants of the forest. Among the twisted kāmahi, you’ll spot towering rimu and kahikatea trees standing like ancient sentinels. The undergrowth is a lush tapestry of native ferns, including the impressive mamaku (black tree fern) and ponga (silver fern), which create a dense, multi-layered green world.

While the loop itself is spectacular, its proximity to other landmarks is a major drawcard. The track is often walked in conjunction with the Wilkies Pools Loop Track. These pools were formed by 20,000-year-old lava flows, and the geological contrast between the lush forest and the smooth, scoured rock of the pools is fascinating. And, of course, you can't visit this area without taking the short five-minute stroll to see Dawson Falls (Te Rere o Noke) itself—an 18-metre drop that is one of the most accessible and beautiful waterfalls in the region.

Getting There

To find the trailhead, head towards the town of Stratford and follow Manaia Road all the way to the end. The road winds its way up the mountain, offering glimpses of the peak on a clear day, before terminating at the Dawson Falls Visitor Centre.

There is a spacious, free car park at the centre which serves as the starting point for several tracks, including the Ridge Loop. On fine summer weekends, this area can get incredibly popular as locals and tourists alike head for the rock pools and waterfalls. If you’re visiting during the peak season, we recommend arriving before 10:00 am or after 3:00 pm to secure a park easily.

For peace of mind, there are public toilets available 24 hours a day at the car park, and the Visitor Centre staff are incredibly helpful if you need a last-minute weather update or a map.

Wildlife Spotting

The Ridge Loop Track is a fantastic place for birdwatching, as the dense forest provides a rich habitat for many of New Zealand’s native species. As you walk, keep your ears open for the "natural symphony" of the bush.

The most common residents are the Tūī and the Bellbird (Korimako). You’ll likely hear them before you see them; their complex, melodic whistles echo beautifully through the trees. Look for the white tuft under the Tūī's chin or the olive-green flash of the Bellbird.

You are also very likely to be joined by the Fantail (Pīwakawaka). These friendly little birds often follow hikers, flitting about just a few metres away to catch the tiny insects stirred up by your footsteps. In the quieter sections of the track, look for the Tomtit (Miromiro), a small bird with a distinctive white or yellow breast that often perches sideways on tree trunks.

While the North Island Brown Kiwi does live in the park, they are nocturnal and very shy, making a sighting exceptionally rare during the day. However, if you are lucky enough to be in the area at dusk, you might just hear their piercing calls echoing from the shadows.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Ridge Loop Track is truly a year-round destination, with each season offering a different perspective on the landscape:

• Spring: The forest is at its most vibrant, with new growth on the ferns and the birdlife at its most active and vocal.
• Summer: The thick canopy provides a refreshing, cool canopy, making it a perfect escape from the summer heat. This is the best time for rock-hopping at the stream.
• Autumn: The light is softer and more golden, which makes the greens of the moss pop even more in your photos.
• Winter: Don't let the cold put you off! A light dusting of snow on the kāmahi branches makes the 'Goblin Forest' look like a scene from Narnia. Just be prepared for cooler temperatures and potentially slippery sections.

• What to wear: Even though the track is "easy," this is a mountain environment. Weather can change in an instant. Always carry a waterproof jacket and wear sturdy walking shoes or boots, especially if you plan to cross the stream.
• Water & Snacks: There are no shops on the trail, so bring a bottle of water and a light snack to enjoy by the Kapuni Stream.
• Safety: Tell someone where you are going, even on a short walk like this. Taranaki Maunga creates its own weather system, and cloud can descend quickly.

Local & Regional Context

The area surrounding Dawson Falls holds deep significance. Known to Māori as Te Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki, the park is a sacred landscape. For the local iwi (tribes), Taranaki Maunga is an ancestor, and the forest is seen as a living link to the past. The name 'Dawson Falls' honours an early European explorer, but the waterfall's Māori name, Te Rere o Noke, refers to a story of a fugitive named Noke who hid behind the curtain of water to escape his pursuers.

The "Goblin Forest" isn't just a catchy name for tourists; it’s a recognized botanical phenomenon. The unique growing conditions—high rainfall, volcanic soil, and the specific altitude—allow the mosses and liverworts to thrive in a way that is rarely seen elsewhere in New Zealand.

Geologically, you are walking on the remnants of ancient volcanic activity. The very ground beneath your feet was shaped by eruptions and debris flows from the mountain over thousands of years. This history is written into the stones of the Kapuni Stream and the gnarled roots of the kāmahi.

After the Walk

Once you’ve finished the loop and returned to your car, you’ll likely have worked up an appetite.

If you want to stay on the mountain, the Dawson Falls Mountain Lodge is just a stone's throw from the Visitor Centre. It’s one of the oldest lodges in New Zealand and offers a cozy, historic atmosphere where you can grab a coffee or a meal while looking out over the forest you just explored.

If you’re heading back down towards the coast, stop in at The Shakee Pear in Stratford. It’s a local favourite for hikers, offering great coffee, generous slices of cake, and a lovely garden area. It’s the perfect place to sit back, scroll through your photos of the twisted trees, and plan your next Taranaki adventure.

Whether you're a local looking for a weekend stroll or a visitor wanting to see the "wild side" of New Zealand, the Ridge Loop Track is a magical experience that stays with you long after you've left the forest.