Pepper Tree Track

Dogs Unknown

An old and little frequented track through native bush, this allows a short cut between Pineapple Track and Nicholls Track to Swampy Ridge. It is not straightforward to find. From the south end, on a flat grassy area at 475m altitude a subtle track heads off through grass and between small trees and bushes; if in doubt, head left. A large hollow tree is reached where a left branch is the Pepper Tree Track (the right fork descends more steeply to Nicholls Falls across a series of attractive meadows). The Pepper Tree Track crosses a few small streams and then climbs steadily up to the Nicholls ridge, popping out at a large wooden sign just uphill from the picnic table.

NZ native bush birdlife abounds and the sound of birdsong can be loud in the upper reaches of the valley.