Last updated June 2026
The Acland Falls Track is a short, easy walk through native bush in Peel Forest Park Scenic Reserve, leading to a 14-metre waterfall on the Acland Stream. The track can be started from either Clarke Flat or Te Wanahu Flat and takes 25–30 minutes one way depending on the starting point. It is one of the easiest waterfall walks in the reserve and is managed by the Department of Conservation with free entry. The falls are named after J.B. Acland of Mount Peel Station, whose family helped protect the forest in the 19th century.
Practical Information
| Location | Peel Forest Park Scenic Reserve, 9.5 km north of Geraldine off SH72 |
| Distance | 600 m one way from Clarke Flat; 800 m one way from Te Wanahu Flat |
| Time | 30 min one way from Clarke Flat; 25 min one way from Te Wanahu Flat |
| Difficulty | Easy to moderate — well-formed track with some steep sections and stream bed walking |
| Falls height | 14 metres |
| Managed by | Department of Conservation |
| Entry | Free |
| Access | Turn off SH72 into Peel Forest Road / Rangitata Gorge Road; Clarke Flat and Te Wanahu Flat are 600 m apart |
About the Acland Falls Track
The Acland Falls Track runs through the podocarp forest of Peel Forest Park Scenic Reserve. The track follows Acland Stream and ends at the 14-metre waterfall, which can be reached after a short walk up the stream bed from either starting point. The northern flank of the park has sunnier, drier vegetation dominated by fuchsia, māhoe, kōwhai and kānuka, contrasting with other parts of the reserve.
The falls are named after J.B. Acland of Mount Peel Station. In the 19th century the Acland family helped preserve significant areas of bush that later became part of the scenic reserve. The track can be combined with sections of Allans Track to create a loop back to the flats.
Peel Forest Park Scenic Reserve protects one of the largest remaining stands of lowland kahikatea, mataī and tōtara forest in Canterbury. The forest supports native birds including kererū, bellbird (korimako) and other species typical of South Island podocarp forest.
Other Tracks in Peel Forest
Peel Forest offers several other walks. The Emily Falls Track leads to another waterfall deeper in the reserve. The Big Tree Walk passes large mataī, kahikatea and tōtara trees, including some estimated to be around 1,000 years old. The Kahikatea Walk and Allans Track provide additional options through the forest and can be linked with the Acland Falls Track for longer outings.
Access and Getting There
Peel Forest is approximately 45 minutes’ drive from Timaru. From Timaru, travel north on SH1 then SH72 toward Geraldine, then turn onto Peel Forest Road. The reserve is about 9.5 km north of Geraldine. Clarke Flat and Te Wanahu Flat picnic areas provide parking and are the main starting points for the track.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors describe the walk as pleasant and family-friendly, with beautiful native forest and a rewarding waterfall at the end. Some note the track has steps and a short stream-bed section that can be slippery when wet.
Many appreciate the peaceful setting and the chance to see large old trees on nearby tracks. Reviewers often combine the Acland Falls walk with the Big Tree Walk for a half-day visit.
Where to Learn More
DOC — Acland Falls Track: official track description, distances, times and access details from the Department of Conservation.
DOC — Peel Forest Park Scenic Reserve: full park information including all tracks, camping and natural history.
Peel Forest Park brochure (PDF): downloadable brochure with track maps and background on the reserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Acland Falls Track?
In Peel Forest Park Scenic Reserve, 9.5 km north of Geraldine. Turn off SH72 into Peel Forest Road; the track starts from Clarke Flat or Te Wanahu Flat on Rangitata Gorge Road.
How long is the Acland Falls walk?
600 m one way (30 min) from Clarke Flat or 800 m one way (25 min) from Te Wanahu Flat. Return times are similar.
How high are the Acland Falls?
14 metres.
Who are the falls named after?
J.B. Acland of Mount Peel Station, whose family helped protect the bush that became part of the scenic reserve.
What other walks are in Peel Forest?
The Emily Falls Track, Big Tree Walk, Kahikatea Walk and Allans Track are popular options in the same reserve.
Is the track suitable for families?
The track is generally suitable for most visitors but includes some steep sections and a short stream-bed walk that may be slippery when wet.
Are dogs allowed on the track?
Dogs are not permitted in Peel Forest Park Scenic Reserve except in designated areas; check current DOC rules before visiting.
Is there camping nearby?
Yes, Peel Forest has a family-friendly campground managed by the Department of Conservation.
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