Want to explore Nelson’s breathtaking natural surroundings? Bring your lunch and put on your walking shoes for these family-friendly trails. Bring along that additional family member for a walk through nature—some are even dog-friendly. The top walks in and around Nelson are listed here.
1. Wainui Falls Track
The breathtaking culmination of this easy short trip in the Abel Tasman National Park is a magnificent waterfall. This one-hour and 20-minute trail, which begins at the Wainui Bay parking lot, passes through beautiful forest, plenty of farmland, granite boulders, and a suspension bridge. This is one of the most popular tracks in the area during the busiest summer months, so be prepared to share the track.
2. Pupu Hydro Walkway
Using this quick walking path in Nelson that runs next to a former gold-mine water course, you may learn more about the region’s extensive mining history. The water race was a technological marvel for its day; a channel was built through the rocky slope to transport the gold to its intended location.
This water race is appropriate for kids and is surrounded by a beautiful beech, podocarp, and rimu forest. But keep an eye on them at the parts of the track where the race has worn down. Watch out for some lovely wildlife and plants. Crayfish, tūī, weka, the South Island robin, and other creatures are among them.
3. Whispering Falls Walk
Want to take your canine friend on one of Nelson’s top dog-friendly trails? Then Whispering Falls should be your only choice. This track starts at the Hackett Car Park at Mount Richmond Forest Park, only thirty minutes from Nelson.
You can walk along the Hackett River and through a lovely podocarp forest on the 2-hour return trip. Proceed through the river and over swing bridges (you might get some wet shoes!). The cascading Whispering Falls is where this magnificent hike ends. Technically, there are two waterfalls here: an upper waterfall and a lower waterfall.
After a little light rain, the falls are very breathtaking. After 5 minutes of walking, stop for a picnic lunch near the higher waterfall. This is a wonderful family-friendly little walk in Nelson.
4. Queen’s Gardens
Check the Queen’s Gardens for a more leisurely stroll through Nelson’s town center. This botanical garden was established in 1892 to commemorate the jubilee of Queen Victoria and bears her name.
Discover trees, flowers, water features, sculptures, and war memorials by taking a stroll through the grounds. For the cultural and art enthusiast seeking a peaceful experience in the center of Nelson, this walk is ideal.
5. Maitai River Walkway
One of Nelson’s best walks is, without a doubt, this one. The 8km track runs alongside the Maitai River, and you may access it from a number of nearby entry points on foot, a bike (though not in the Nile street part), or even a skateboard. For those seeking a blend of urban and natural qualities, this track is ideal.
A favorite location for locals to take their dogs for leash-free walks, leisurely strolls, pleasurable bike rides, and calm runs. The route features numerous picnic areas and swimming holes, making it a perfect day trip or relaxing nighttime stroll.
