Walk through young forest then into sub-alpine (goblin territory) forest to a series of beautiful pools and waterfalls with crystal clear blue waters, scoured from 20,000 year old lava.
The first half of this track is baby buggy/wheelchair assisted friendly. Bring the kids!
The track begins from the car park 100 m above the Dawson Falls Visitor Centre. Continue past the seat, cross the Kāpuni Stream and through scrub to Wilkies Pools. The rest of the loop leads via twin falls and bubbling springs. Continue past the power station water intake weir, cross the Kāpuni Stream and turn left at the seat to return to the Visitor Centre.
Take care when crossing the Kāpuni Stream as the river bank may be eroded, making access difficult. There is no bridge across this stream.
Feature | Value | Info |
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Location |
North Island ▷ Taranaki ▷ Stratford |
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Categories |
Margot
Ranking: 8/10
Very nice and easy walk along the stream with many little waterfalls. Can do a loop by continuing towards the Plateau, and the Enchanted track (very steep and not so interesting).
Joana Frever
Ranking: 9/10
There are several walks at Mt Taranaki, you can even walk from hut to hut. I walked the Wilkies Pool track. It is a nice walk to the Pools and you can even swim in them.
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Granjon
Ranking: 10/10
Short walk but very amazing track.
Nina Coopmans
Ranking: 10/10
Like walking through a fairy tale forest. We walked to the swing bridge. I would recommend the detour! The environment and views are amazing!
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Lauret Stulemeyer
Ranking: 9/10
Beautiful forest, 'Goblin Forest' with nice waterfalls and little streams - one of my top hikes.
Julie Lamart
Ranking: 10/10
Great track/crossings and rivers. Amazing trees along the way covered with green sponge. Beautiful waterfall.
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Adam Hayley
Ranking: 7/10
An easy walk, longer routes available, series of pools and waterfalls are beautiful - smooth rocks with crystal clear blue waters.
Johanna
Ranking: 10/10
Easy walkway plus climbing - exciting to do with the children, if not too cloudy, good view on the landscape.
Ralf Genthe
Ranking: 9/10
1 hour, good for children, brilliant views.
Gunda G
Ranking: 10/10
Even our 6 year old daughter was fascinated by such nature and track through river
Thanks to all the good people working for the NZ Department of Conservation - for all your hard work - making NZ more beautiful, accessable and healthy! Cheers 😍
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Rankers owner