Wanderyn
Dawson Falls
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
poi · NZ

Dawson Falls

Getting around: About 45-50 minutes' drive from central New Plymouth, on the eastern side of Egmont National Park. A car is necessary; there's a car park with a short walking track to the falls.
Hours: Open access during daylight hours; the visitor centre near the falls keeps its own separate hours, roughly weekends and school holidays historically — check current status before relying on it being open.

Dawson Falls is an 18-metre waterfall on the slopes of Mount Taranaki, reached via a short walk through native forest from a car park on the mountain's southeastern side. It's one of the more accessible waterfalls within Egmont National Park, and the area also serves as a trailhead for several longer walks higher up the mountain.

It's a good option if you want a taste of Egmont National Park's forest and volcanic scenery without a long hike, generally taking 20-30 minutes return for just the falls.

Dawson Falls FAQs

How long is the walk to the falls?

About 20-30 minutes return on a well-formed track through native forest.

Is it a good base for longer walks?

Yes, it's a trailhead for several longer routes further up Mount Taranaki for those wanting more of a hike.

Is there a visitor centre?

There's a visitor centre/lodge in the area, though its opening hours have varied — check current status before visiting.

How tall is the waterfall?

About 18 metres.

Is it far from New Plymouth?

About 45-50 minutes' drive.

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