Last Updated on: 4 January 2026

The Dome Forest Track in Warkworth takes you through native bush to the summit of Dome Mountain. You get panoramic views of Northland, including Warkworth township, the Hauraki Gulf, and surrounding farmland. The walk typically takes 1-2 hours return, with steep sections near the summit.

Quick Facts

  • Distance: 3.2 km return (approximately 1km to lookout platform)
  • Time: 1-2 hours return (40 minutes to lookout platform)
  • Grade: Moderate to challenging
  • Elevation gain: Approximately 240 metres
  • Summit height: 336 metres
  • Track type: Bush track with summit extension
  • Dog-friendly: Dogs allowed on lead
  • Facilities: Car park at Dome Forest car park, toilets at cafe (not on track)
  • Best season: Year-round, but summer can be hot with no shade near summit
  • Cost: Free

Map of Dome Forest Summit

Track Directions

  • Start at Dome Forest car park on State Highway 1, 7km north of Warkworth
  • Park in the cafe car park and look for the signposted track entrance behind the building
  • The first 300 metres are steep steps along a narrow road reserve
  • Enter the Dome Forest conservation area (401 hectares) where the track continues through native bush
  • Follow the well-formed path along the ridge through podocarp and broadleaf forest
  • Reach the lookout platform with views across the Mahurangi Peninsula to the Hauraki Gulf (good turnaround point for a shorter walk)
  • Continue to the summit if you want more – the track gets steeper with some scrambling required
  • At the summit (336m) you can see Taranga Island, part of the Hen and Chicken Islands
  • Advanced trampers can continue on the Te Araroa trail through the Waiwhiu Kauri Grove to Govan Wilson Road (7 hours total)
  • Return via the same route

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Find more walks in this area at Warkworth Walks

How to Get There

The Dome Forest Track is 7km north of Warkworth township on State Highway 1. Park at the Dome Forest car park (496 State Highway 1). The cafe has parking for roughly 15 vehicles but fills quickly on weekends and public holidays.

From Auckland, it’s about a 50-minute drive north on SH1. The track is part of Te Araroa, The Long Pathway. There’s no public transport to the track.

What Makes This Track Special

The Dome Forest Track packs serious elevation gain into a short distance. You’re climbing 240 metres in just over a kilometre, which means it’s genuinely steep but gets you panoramic views without the all-day commitment.

The bush is proper native forest with mature rimu, totara, and nikau palms. Tūī, bellbirds, and fantails are everywhere. If you stop and stay quiet you’ll spot them flitting through the trees hunting insects.

From the lookout platform you get 180-degree views across the Mahurangi Peninsula to the Hauraki Gulf. On clear days you can see the Coromandel Peninsula and the Hauraki Gulf Islands. Push on to the summit and you add the Hen and Chicken Islands to the north.

Insider Tips

  • The track drains poorly, even a day after rain you’ll hit mud patches that’ll suck your boots off. Wear proper hiking boots with ankle support
  • Start early in summer, by 11am the exposed bits near the top turn into a sun trap with zero shade
  • The humidity in the bush combined with the steep climb means you’ll sweat buckets
  • Pack more water than you think you need – at least 1 litre per person. There’s no water anywhere on the track
  • The handrails on steep sections get slippery when wet. Use them, they’re there for a reason
  • Mobile reception is patchy to non-existent in the bush. Download your maps before you go
  • The viewing platform at the lookout only fits about 6 people. If it’s packed, there are spots just below where you can still get the views
  • Kauri dieback is serious here, use the cleaning stations and scrub all the soil off your boots and gear before you start

Track Conditions and Challenges

Those first 300 metres of steep steps set the tone for what’s coming. If you walk regularly you’ll be fine, but your legs will know about it. Less experienced walkers should take it slow and factor in plenty of breaks.

The track to the lookout is well maintained with clear markers. Beyond that to the summit it gets rougher – tree roots, uneven ground, and bits where you’re scrambling up.

The exposed sections have zero shade. Between the wind, sun, and reflection you can burn without realizing it.

Coming back down is harder than going up. Your knees and ankles will get tested. Take your time on the steep bits and use those handrails.

What to Bring

  • At least 1 litre of water per person
  • Proper hiking boots or trail shoes with ankle support and good grip
  • Sunscreen and hat for exposed sections
  • Light rain jacket – weather changes fast
  • Snacks
  • Charged phone for emergencies and photos
  • Insect repellent during warmer months

Seasonal Considerations

Summer gives you the clearest views but it can be brutal on the exposed upper sections. Temperatures push 30 degrees and there’s no shade for a solid 20 minutes near the top.

Autumn and spring are perfect. You get 15-20 degree temperatures, the track’s usually drier, and the light’s excellent for photos. In spring you’ll find native orchids in the bush if you know what you’re looking for.

Winter works fine but bring layers. The bush blocks the wind but once you hit the exposed sections those southerlies cut straight through. The views can be spectacular though – crisp clear air and dramatic clouds.

Wildlife and Flora

The bush is alive with tūī, bellbirds, silvereyes, and fantails. Stay quiet and you’ll spot them hunting insects through the branches.

The nikau palms down low are massive. The forest floor’s thick with kawakawa, māhoe, and all sorts of ferns including king ferns. Near the summit everything changes to tough grasses and low scrub that can handle the wind.

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Bonus Tips

  • Don’t leave valuables visible in your car, the car park gets targeted occasionally
  • Watch your step at the cattle stop by the track entrance
  • Track markers are orange triangles
  • Bring a cloth if you wear glasses, the humidity fogs them constantly
  • The wooden steps near the summit get slippery when wet
  • There’s usually a track book at the summit platform
  • The surrounding land is farmed, so stick to the marked track
  • Wind comes from the southwest mostly so position yourself well at viewpoints

Common Questions and FAQ

Can I bring my dog?

Yes, but dogs must stay on lead the whole time. The steep sections and narrow track make it tricky with an excitable dog. Clean up after your pet.

Is the track suitable for children?

Fit kids 8+ usually manage fine with encouragement. Younger kids might struggle with the steep bits and the distance. The handrails aren’t at kid height which makes the steep sections harder. There’s no playground at the top, just views.

How busy does it get?

Weekday mornings you might have it to yourself. Weekends between 10am-2pm can get 30-40 people on the track. School holidays are busier. Go before 9am or after 3pm for a quieter experience.

What if I only want a shorter walk?

Turn back at the lookout platform – about 40 minutes return. You still get excellent views across the Mahurangi Peninsula without the scrambling bit to the summit.

Is there mobile coverage for emergencies?

Patchy in the bush and unreliable at the summit. Don’t count on being able to call for help. Tell someone your plans and carry basic first aid. If there’s a real emergency, head back to the car park where coverage is better.

Can I camp at the car park?

No. Day use only, no freedom camping. Warkworth township has proper camping facilities.

Walks Nearby

Getting Supplies

  • Dome cafe may or may not be operating – check before relying on it for supplies
  • Warkworth: 7km south – two large supermarkets, cafes, shops, petrol
  • Leigh: 20 minutes north – Sawmill Cafe known for fish and chips

No supplies on the track itself.