The Staircase Road to the start of the Lake Chalice Track is a dramatic climb into Mount Richmond Forest Park, offering one of the most rugged but accessible backroad experiences in the upper South Island. Beginning from Top Valley Road, roughly a 30-minute drive southwest of Blenheim, this remote forestry road winds its way up from the Top Valley floor to more than 1,200 metres above sea level. This height is comparable to the ski field car parks. Throughout its 20 steep and twisting kilometres, it gains approximately 1,000 metres in elevation, offering stunning views.
Despite being a rough gravel and clay road built primarily for forestry access, Staircase Road is usually manageable in a 2WD car in dry conditions. However, after rain, it can become slippery. Along the high ridgeline section, there are steep drops and no barriers. Exercise caution, check conditions in advance, and be prepared to turn back if necessary. The road also deteriorates after it continues beyond the Lake Chalice Track car park, and can be closed during active logging operations.
The payoff is access to some of the region’s most spectacular remote spots. Near the summit ridge, you’ll find the Enchanted Lookout — a spectacular viewpoint across the Wairau Valley far below. After this, Staircase Road continues to a car park at the start of the two to four-hour Lake Chalice Track. Trampers can also follow more challenging multi-day tracks and routes deep into the park, including the Goulter Track and Mt. Patriarch Route.
Accessing Staircase Road 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.
