As one of our most accessible national parks and close to Whanganui, Egmont National Park is the frequent destination for trips planned by the Wanganui Tramping Club.
The park, established in 1900 and dominated by the dormant volcano of Mt Taranaki, has three road entry points (Manaia Rd to Dawson Falls; Egmont Rd to North Egmont; and Pembroke Rd to Stratford Plateau) and a number of other road ends with tracks.
Weather is always a consideration as the park receives massive annual precipitation. This and a mild coastal climate means there is a lush rainforest covering the foothills, a forest which is nationally significant for the total absence of beech trees.
With changeable and unpredictable weather, prudent trampers check the forecast and carry enough clothing and equipment to ensure they can cope with any outcome. The rivers and tributaries are not always bridged and some can flood at any time of the year.
Apart from seven Department of Conservation (DOC) huts, two private tourist lodges offer accommodation in the park: Stratford Mountain House (East Egmont) and Dawson Falls Lodge (Dawson Falls). As well, three club lodges can be used by making prior arrangements with the clubs: Tahurangi Lodge (Taranaki Alpine Club), Kapuni Lodge (Mount Egmont Alpine Club) and Stratford Mountain Club.