Lake Chalice, nestled at 750 metres above sea level within Mount Richmond Forest Park near Blenheim, is an idyllic setting for day walks and overnight stays. The lake is the only one in the park and is surrounded by wilderness beech forest.
The track to Lake Chalice begins at the Lake Chalice carpark at 1,200 metres from the rough but spectacular Staircase Road. It is one of the highest car parks on a publicly accessible road in New Zealand. From there, it is a steep 500-meter 1-hour descent on the sometimes rough stony track to a DOC hut. The track begins in exotic scrub and trees, then gradually enters the beech forest. Lower down, there are a couple of attractive small waterfalls on streams that cross the track.
From the hut, you can follow the expansive nearby gravel beds to the edge of the lake or take the relatively flat loop track that circles the lake through the beech forest. Allow 2.5 hours to complete the lake loop. If you prefer a slower pace or wish to explore additional tracks deep into the ranges, such as the Goulter and access to Te Araroa, spending a night or two in the hut is a fantastic option. Sandflies and wasps are possible, so be prepared if you plan to hang around.
Accessing Lake Chalice is via Northbank Road from State Highway 6, just north of the Wairau River bridge. Continue west on the Northbank Road to Top Valley, then take Top Valley Road until you reach Staircase Road. This forestry road leads through a plantation pine forest to the Mount Richmond Forest Park conservation area. The road is unsealed and is used by forestry operators. It was okay for a 2WD when we visited, but it can be affected by bad weather or forestry operations.
