Wellington Regional Trails
Two people walking along a swing bridge between two hillsides on the Escarpment track above the Kāpiti Coast.

Walking time

3 - 4 hr

Length

9.1km

Uses

Walking/Running, Tramping/Hiking

Type

Single track

Walking difficulty

Intermediate: Easier tramping track

Profile

217m highest point

Dogs

No
3 people walking along a swing bridge between 2 hillsides on the Escarpment track above the Kāpiti coast.
The suspension bridge on Escarpment Track, a hiking trail that runs from Paekākāriki to Pukerua Bay, with views of the spectacular Kāpiti Coastline and Kapiti Island.
Stairs up a hill on the escarpment track.

About the trail

The Escarpment Track runs from Paekākāriki to Pukerua Bay, taking in sweeping views of the spectacular Kāpiti Coastline and Kapiti Island. The trail can be walked in either direction, but most choose to walk from north to south.

Heading south, the trail follows the Kāpiti railway line, then veers uphill and across privately-owned farmland. You’ll climb 220 metres above sea level and navigate steep, narrow pathways on what is one of the highlights of Te Araroa Trail.

Families of all ages enjoy this trail, but it is not recommended for the faint-hearted: you’ll scale around 1,200 steep steps, navigate narrow pathways across ridgelines, and traverse two swing bridges.

Find your wild on the Escarpment Track

Adventure high above a slice of stunning, windswept coastline, take in spectacular views and experience one of the Wellington region’s finest walks.

Person walking down the steps on the Escarpment Track.
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